Breast cancer was a gift that I received January 2001.
Understandably, I was reluctant to accept it at first. The words "You have cancer," threw me into an abyss of terror, and the chemotherapy and radiation therapies threw my body into shock. Once the treatments ended and the effects from the therapies wore off, however, I realized I was lucky enough to survive this disease, and I quickly made life-changing decisions.
I divorced my abusive husband, chose another career, and have since become an advocate who helps others by sharing my story and encouraging medical advocacy. See, I was the one who found my own tumor by doing a monthly breast self exam.
Breast cancer set me on an unexpected path toward helping others, as well as building friendships and love. This disease made me the strong, courageous person I am now, and it has given me the gift of appreciating each day and never taking anything for granted.
I would never have chosen breast cancer, but I am glad it chose me.
Glendale Heights, IL
