I was diagnosed in July 1999, It was a real shock! Thankfully I had two Stage 1 tumors and only needed a lumpectomy and radiation. I also made a decision I would keep my life as normal as possible for my own sanity as well as my families'. I decided to keep working.
There were so many people who walked that mile with me during this time. My family rallied together and decided not to make cancer my lot in life, I was going to live!. My co-workers were trully amazing, they made sure I was an active part of the work environment, yet when I needed their assistance when I began to show the weariness of radiation, they were there no questions asked.
Everyday, someone made sure I was emotionally "up". A joke, a special smile, and most importantly no looks of sympathy!!!!. Many people cried with me when I needed to cry, when I stumbled into the "whoo is me stage" they were there to say "Buck up, you're in this for the long haul!"
Cancer defined a period of my life where I experienced the joy of being loved and sheltered by family, friends and the blessings of God, who put this amazing people in my life.
I ended my radiation the week of Thanksgiving and each year I thank the people who walked that mile with me, beside me, behind me and stayed positive.
Pasadena, CA