It's difficult to remember when Gram wasn't undergoing chemo/radiation. Through the years of treatments/remission/treatments/remission,she never complained or gave up. She always spoke of experimental drugs/treatments that were being developed and that she was willing to try them so that someone would benefit. Gram lived being thankful for today. I'm thankful that over the years,research continued to develop newer/better ways to fight this disease. That research bought me time with Gram that I never would have had,memories that cancer can never erase,time for my three children to know their great grandma and make memories with her,and many people new hope because the treatments she tried gave researchers data they needed to continue/refine their research. It's a difficult way to live,but a way to live! We never knew which holiday will be the last and we'd want one last hug/kiss in case it was the last.
Gram's been my hero since I can remember. She's been the rock of our family. All who knew her,loved her. Gram would walk into a crowded room,at just under five feet tall,and be noticed by all. Her smile was contagious and her heart gave constantly. At the age of 80-something, she was named Volunteer of the Year by the Cook County Sheriff's Office for her commitment to driving Meals-on-Wheels,driving the elderly to doctor appointments and grocery stores,and visiting those who were bed-ridden. She never stopped giving. She was always concerned more about others than about herself.
Thanks to breast cancer research, Gram was able to touch thousands of lives as a middle school secretary,lead a family to carry on traditions,share in the graduations of seven grandchildren and the weddings of three,love and be loved by five great-grandchildren,be a role model and my hero. Many lives have been made better because she benefited from breast cancer research.
Ocoee, FL