At the age of 44 I thought I had it all, a loving family, wonderful friends and a rewarding career. But life threw me an unexpected curve ball when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Initially I was terrified by this news, but one visit to the BCCR changed my destiny. The professionalism and compassion of the incredible staff helped me to collect my thoughts and the facts I needed to make educated decisions.
Perhaps my greatest good fortune came the Friday I attended BCCR’s Brown Bag. There I found my “sisters”. Women of all faiths, ages, backgrounds and ethnicities who shared an unbreakable bond, breast cancer. The strength, encouragement, support, understanding and caring expressed each week by my “sisters” was and continues to be an inspiration to me. The journeys and stories are as unique as the women who share them and the bond is like none other I have ever shared.
Having breast cancer has changed my life in numerous ways, most of which have been very positive. Cancer brought out the best in people and showed my family and me how important we are in the lives of so many.
Before cancer I spent my days accomplishing projects at work, tackling chores at home, running errands, caring for my children and basically checking off my never ending to-do list. Cancer has taught me to appreciate and enjoy the simplest miracles of every day. I no longer “Do life – I live it.” My family is much closer and stronger for this experience. Not a day passes without my telling the people I love how I feel about them. I have vowed to never take my life and the people I love for granted. Cancer gave me the “Gift of Life” and for that I am deeply grateful. BCCR and my “sisters” have given me the support and perspective I need to embrace this precious gift.
How blessed I am and how fortunate we are to have BCCR within our community!
