T.H.E. Memorials

I was lucky that the lump in my breast hurt so much. Otherwise, I would not have insisted that the doctor remove it. Then, to everyone’s surprise, it was cancer. The next day I was in the hospital having a mastectomy. Lucky again, the cancer had not spread and I have been fine for the last twenty years.

STAY STRONG 
Breast cancer at 36 – is it possible?  I discovered it was possible and not as uncommon as I had believed.  Cancer does not restrict itself to age, race or gender.  I had always believed only women with a family history and were over 50 were diagnosed with breast cancer.  Through my experience, I have met many people who have taught me that with strength, support and courage, each day can be a little more special.

Male Breast Cancer
Male breast cancer is rare. It happens most often to men between the ages of 60 and 70. Risk factors for male breast cancer include exposure to radiation, a family history of breast cancer. Symptoms of male breast cancer include lumps, changes to the nipple or breast skin, or discharge of fluid from the nipple. Treatment for male breast cancer is usually a mastectomy, which is surgery to remove the breast. Other treatments include radiation, chemotherapy and/or hormone therapy

Through wonderful support of family and friends, I am inspired to live every day to the fullest, with joy and gratitude

God has taught me so many things with my breast cancer diagnosis.  One of the most important lessons is that we don't have to carry our burdens alone.  Our God is so awesome that He wants us to turn ALL our worries over to him.  All we have to do is put our trust and faith in him, and know that if He brings us to it, He will see us through it.

 I have been in continuous treatment since my breast cancer metastasized into my bones over five years ago. During that time, while cancer has remained a constant presence in my life, I have experienced the Lord’s character, love, and mercy more intimately and deeply than ever before. I have been overwhelmed by His faithfulness and amazed by how He raises people up—many of whom I’ve never met—to encourage and pray for me, reminding me how He loves and cares for His children so tenderly. Through these blessings, I have been inspired to live each day to the fullest, filled with joy and gratitude. I want my life to be pleasing in God’s eyes and encouraging to others.

Happy New Year ~ my message to all women is the importance of an annual mammogram! At age 72, I had my complete physical and all was well. A few weeks later I had a mammogram. It showed something very small in my left breast. On further exam I learned a mastectomy was necessary; which I had and continued to live a healthy full life! About 15 years later at age 87, my annual mammogram showed something small in my right breast. After a lumpectomy I still enjoy a good life. My experience certainly proves the importance of mammograms.
Walk into the future and know that God is with you.

I don’t know why I have been chosen to walk down this path.  But I know that I do not walk it alone.  And when I can not walk God carries me.  The path has graced me with many examples of not just survivors but thrivers. Family and friends remind me that cancer is simply a slippery stone in the creek that I must cross to the sweet road on the other side.  I am blessed to walk down the path if only to meet you Along the Way.