Tell us about your survivor journey.
I’m living a fantastic life as a METS survivor. I retired from a career in federal law enforcement to better care for myself accepting my limitations physically due to my treatments that saved my life. I’m a full-time Grandma to my 1st grandchild now assisting my daughter who just returned to work full time after beating APML Leukemia. I look at my life today differently of course but not the end all, although I deal with anxiety and some depression because Breast Cancer changes you not just physically but it can embody a plethora of emotions that each fight for control, secret is “I’m the final judge in what Is!” Today, is a great day, I’ve relocated from Philadelphia PA to San Antonio Texas to explore new beginnings.
What has been the biggest source of support through your journey?
Besides my faith and power of prayer, lots of prayer! I’d say my children, my small circle of family and friends even some strangers I’ve met over the years. Also, my oncologist and therapist. Also, Living Beyond Breast Cancer they are a great source of information, inspiration and you realize you aren’t alone.
What are some lessons you have learned throughout your survivor journey?
Everyone won’t understand nor stay in your life. Folks fear what they dont understand nor can control. I’ve learned resilience and how to advocate for myself. I learned and accept my body isn’t the same yet I am still a “whole” Woman. I am still beautiful, sexy and confident.
Do you have any advice for a newly diagnosed survivor? What would that advice be and why?
Be gentle with yourself, its okay to be vulnerable, to cry, to be pissed off but don’t wallow in it. Ask for help if you need it. Ask for hugs if you want one. Ask questions no matter how trivial, if the doctor isn’t a fit change him/her. Take control of your life and Live it well.
In the space below, feel free to add any additional information like extra stories, lessons to live by, meaningful life quotes, advice or unique factors that contribute to your survivor journey.
Live Life Like It’s Golden. Its from a song I love by Jill Scott, makes me dance EVERY time.
