Faces of Breast Cancer

Charlotte
2-year survivor

I am a child of God, wife, mother, sister, favorite aunt, friend and volunteer. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My husband and children are all traveling on this journey with me, and each in their own individual way supplies me with strength and courage when I am most afraid. My husband, Keith, is there with me, giving me his hand to hold (I actually mean squeeze extremely tight) whenever he is permitted by the medical staff. There is always an abundance of love and laughter available from all of them when my well runs dry. They work together to keep everything running smoothly so I don’t have to worry and increase my stress level.  We are a family and will get through anything together.

Denise
8-year survivor

I am a mother, sister, grandmother and friend. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My sister has been there for me throughout my journey - from diagnosis, mastectomy, chemo, reconstruction and beyond.

I have learned that cancer does not discriminate and I am stronger than I ever thought I was. God really doesn’t give you more than you can handle. 

Kay
1 ½ year survivor

I am a wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, daughter, daughter-in-law and friend. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My husband has been so supportive throughout this journey. We have cried together, prayed together and laughed together. He was by my side when I got my diagnosis, at doctor appointments, at surgeries and at chemo. He even got a pink ribbon tattoo on his ankle to match mine. I can’t imagine going through this without him. For anything I needed, he was there for me.

Monica
2-year survivor

I am a daughter, sister, wife, mother and friend. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My best friend, Pam, was always there whether I needed a shoulder to cry on or just someone to talk to. My husband had just started a new job and missed a couple of my appointments. Without hesitation, Pam took off work and was there with me. She was the best note taker and was always that extra set of ears to help me get the info I needed and to remember the questions I forgot.

Traci
1-year survivor

I am a daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, Nene (grandma) and friend. I am a breast cancer survivor.
 
My daughter, Hollie, and my sister, Kim, have given me unconditional love and support. I decided to shave my head because it was just too much to watch it fall out little by little. On the day I shaved my head, Hollie and Kim shaved their heads as well. This selfless act turned a very sad day into a celebration.

Susan 
2-year survivor

I am a wife, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, cat lover, creative person, cook, reader and volunteer.
I am a breast cancer survivor.

My husband and I have become closer since my diagnosis. Among other things, he has helped me maintain a sense of humor through the breast cancer journey and encourages me to exercise which is so important. We share a love of nature, hiking and fly fishing, which helped in my recovery.

Paula
3-year survivor

I am a Christian, wife, mother, marathon runner and friend. I am a breast cancer survivor.

From the first moment my lump was found, I was surrounded by amazing women of faith and love. These beautiful women represent my church family. Their outpouring of generosity, time and love was overwhelming. I could have never made it through this journey without my friends.

Diana
2 ½ year survivor

I am a gentle but resilient spirit, a devoted mother and grandmother, and yes, a woman warrior. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My daughters, Mikki and Tracey, gave me such beautiful support. I am grateful to them and so many others.

Never let adversity destroy your loving spirit. Be kind everywhere – at work, at home, in your car. Kindness is a powerful cancer fighter.

Janet 
2-year survivor

I am a wife, mother, sister and friend. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My husband, Scott, is my rock in the middle of this storm called breast cancer. He is always there – to listen, to cry or to laugh. My breast cancer diagnosis meant that I had to take a difficult journey, one step at a time, along a path with my family, friends and caregivers to reach recovery.

Donna
1-year survivor

I am a mother, grandmother, sister, wife, friend and mentor. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My Westie and best cuddle buddy, Duncan, seemed to know something was wrong before I did. He gave me unconditional love, lots of Duncy kisses and comfort. He greeted me with excitement when I’d get home then stay right with me and cuddle when I didn’t feel good. He would even get his toys and do silly antics to entertain me and make me laugh when I was feeling particularly tired. He can’t speak but he’s an expert communicator when it comes to giving love and comfort.

Denise
1-year survivor

I am a woman, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, co-worker and nurse. I am a breast cancer survivor.

My sister, Jacque, and my mom, Phyllis, were there for me from the moment I felt the lump.  They would drop everything, get in the car and drive five hours to be with me whenever I asked.  They provided me balance during this unsettling time. They brought laughter, faith, wisdom and unconditional love.

LeAnn 
2 ½ year survivor

I am a different person since breast cancer. Mostly for the better, actually.

My husband, Doug, is my best friend and number one supporter. Doug shared in my breast cancer diagnosis, surgeries, treatment and beyond, such that I don’t even feel like this journey is mine – it is ours.  From day one, everyone graciously offered support of my many daunting decisions, but Doug put himself in my shoes and went out on a limb, assisting in evaluating and making critical life-altering decisions. The suffocating horror that set in with the finite reality of my cancer was endured by Doug and me, as one. Every mention of my journey – to this day – always includes references of us, we and together.