Hi Everyone,
I saw a post today on Facebook….from a 7 year survivor….she got the call 7 years ago that she had breast cancer. For me, 12 years ago I was right in the middle of figuring out “what I was going to have to do” as I had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I was diagnosed in Sept 2008, finished treatment the end of March 2009….relatively short amount of time compared to alot of the girls. I had a bilateral mastectomy, reconstruction and chemo. It really doesn’t matter what your treatment is….it is still breast cancer and initially it pretty much rocks your world…..but….for the most part when women are able to collect themselves, do their homework and make decisions, they manage….because we are good like that….with a plan. I did notice when I was going thru my own treatment….as I got to be a “regular” in the chemo room and at the plastic surgeons to get my fills that there were alot of women doing this alone. There were so many things no one told me….I actually only knew one person who had breast cancer and she was a friend in upstate NY….so this was a new journey for me. It seemed to me there were so many things that would make this situation a little easier to handle and that is why we have Driven by Heart, so no one is going thru this alone……I am not involved in daily things at the office anymore but I remain as a resource if the girls need anything….but they are dedicated and good at what they do so they manage very well continuing to help gals with breast cancer.
October is somewhat emotional for us breast cancer girls….not sounding wimpy, because we aren’t but because it is “Breast Cancer Awareness ” month…everyone is talking about breast cancer. It jogs alot of memories and emotions of what everyone has endured….which brings me back to the 7 year survivor….she lives up north and I have known her since she was a very little girl. My daughter knew first….she called me with “Mom, you have to call J right away, she has breast cancer, she needs you Mom” I called… I call gals all of the time but this was very, very close to me….we talked, I sent her stuff, we talked more….and then she powered thru…..she prevailed. That is what we always want to see and that is why everyday we try to help who has just recieved “the news”….that is why it is very important for women to know that “Driven by Heart” is here…to help them…to power thru.
We do breast cancer 24/7 not just October so please remember us when you are deciding who to make your donation to…..truly touch someone.