> Survivors Breast Cancer Survivor Stories

Survivor of the Year 2008: Cris Winter Cris is the type of woman I hope to be if ever faced with a cancer diagnosis.  I have not known Cris for a long time but do know that I have extreme respect for the manner in which she tackles her daily journey thru breast cancer.  Cris lost her mother at the age of 28.  When faced with the knowledge that she would undergo biopsy and have a possible cancer diagnosis Cris was faced with how to tell her children EVERYTHING that she always thought she would have forever to tell them.  The agony of the wait from biopsy to diagnosis was the hardest.  Cris underwent lumpectomy with node resection in June 2005 followed by 8 chemotherapy treatments and 35 radiation treatments.  All formal treatment was completed on December 30, 2005…can you say Happy New Year??? Since the day of her diagnosis, Cris has faced cancer with the attitude that God needed her to have breast cancer to save someone else’s life.  Cris is a spiritual person who did not ask God to spare her but rather to give her the strength and dignity to complete her journey and be of help to others around her.  Cris felt a deep knowledge that God had a plan for her touch someone else’s life a hopefully be a blessing to them.  Breast cancer changed Cris, she will never be the person she was prior to her diagnosis but the changes in her have offered her benefits she never would have known otherwise.  Despite all the hardship and discomfort Cris is grateful for the experience.  A favorite quote from Cris is that “God could have just sent me a pamphlet!!”    It is my hope that if I am ever faced with a cancer diagnosis that I can live thru it with the grace that Cris manages daily. Cris is a constant and valuable part of our breast cancer support group at CMMC.  Cris never ceases to bring a smile, an encouraging word or a shoulder to cry on when needed!  Often the first thing you notice about Cris is her sense of humor and mischievous grin! I would like to nominate Cris because she gives off a light that warms all around her!  Cris is as down to earth and easy to talk to as anyone I have ever met!  I count Cris as a dear friend and look to her for support no matter what my situation.  Women are all too often faced with difficult situations and Cris knows how to take what she is given and put a positive spin on the situation.    I am grateful to have Cris in our support group and to count her in my circle of support and friendship. Nominated By: Janet Hayden

The challenges of my journey through breast cancer diagnosis and treatment gave me the strength to make career choices.  I found joy during treatment and made a decision to remain in this joy.  Life is short and should be lived!!!. Patsy Gregory, Breast Cancer Survivor

Ode to Hair I've worn a wig, I've worn a hat, But now I am all done with that. My hair's still short, just like a boy, but going "topless" is a joy. I may be hard to recognize, for this new look's quite a surprise. My hair's too short for barrettes or bows (but I'm just glad for hair that grows); it's not too curly, not too straight (just having hair, I think, is great); it's dark with one bright silver spot (I'd rather have silver than have not). I trust that from these words you see, I'm comfortable with the short-haired me. Although I grieved when I lost my hair, I will always give thanks for the package bare. With props all gone, and pride that's dead, it matters not what's on my head. I hope that you, too, understand that-- hair or no hair-- life is grand! Karen Sudduth, Breast Cancer Survivor ========================================================== Survivor stories encourage others in their fight and we would like to hear your story. Please click here to send us your story. Feel free to include photos. Be sure to include your full name and a phone number where you can be reached. We look forward to hearing from you.

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