The day I retired from a 30 year teaching career, I found out I had breast cancer. After a routine mammogram that was the last thing I expected to hear. Thank God my wonderful husband was with me at the Doctor's office because I did not hear anything after the Doctor said, "Suzie, you have breast cancer." That was in June of 2000. A week later I had a modified radical mastectomy of my left breast, underwent 8 months of chemotherapy and 33 radiation treatments. Then I was put on Tamoxifen and Femara for a total of 10 years. That was thirteen years ago and I have seen my son get married to a wonderful young lady and was there for the birth of our first and only granddaughter 3 years ago. My husband and I have enjoyed many years of travel, camping, enjoying each other and life in general. I am a reach to recovery volunteer
and I also volunteer at our new cancer center once a month. That is a very rewarding experience for me. I have been a 'listening ear' for many cancer victims in our area including several of my friends. My husband was my rock through the whole ordeal and my family was always there for me. I found out how tough I was, how strong our marriage is and that spikey hair is my style. (much better than bald).....I feel very fortunate for my life and the grace of God for allowing me to still be here. As a fellow cancer survivor (a little Italian man named Sal) told me when we were going through chemo together "I feela fine...my feeta hita the floor this morning.....life isa good, Suzie-Q." There is HOPE!!!!
Hersey, MI