Patient Quotes

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13
I believe that you are looking at a miracle!!! – Isaiah 53:5

Breast cancer while pregnant – some said it was too risky, both to me and my unborn child. Others said I was being selfish – I already had one child. I said I was fighting for my life as well as my unborn child. Was it fun – no. Was it easy – no. But it was necessary. 2 years later I am 100% cancer free.
My name is (H.F.) and I symbolize health, hope, and happiness for those of us there were told it was impossible!

It was a shocking experience, but I overcame it two times. I had two different surgeries because they didn’t get it all the first time. I have been cancer free for four years. I did a lot of praying and a lot of family support. I thank God every day that I am still here to enjoy life with my children, grandchildren, family and friends.

Dear Lord,
You’ve done so much for me
Thank you with all my soul
But, I’ve something to ask of thee
Needing your grand control
I’ve waged this battle and I’ve won
Yet others battle still
For some, their journey’s just begun
Please guide each in your will
I’ve walked this road; I’ve felt each bump
I conquered your test
I’ve grown much wiser since the lump
Located in my breast
I see the world much differently
I pray others will too
 So many fight audaciously
Lord, help to see them through
Dear Lord, I ask with all my heart
Please touch these special lives
Bless them with courage from the start
Bring hope into their eyes
Let their hope shine a hallowed light
That burns forever more
To honor their spirited fight
And our dreams for a cure

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in August of 2009. The grace of God and the people that he put in my life has made this journey of living through the doctor visits, chemo, radiation, so much easier. When I found out, immediately my sister came up for “Pink Ribbon” weekend, my coworkers were there for me from day 1. Those women were awesome. They called me in to a staff meeting (I was not working at the time) and when I walked in all I saw was brown and pink t-shirts. They were at my house with food, love, care. I did not need for anything. My sisters, families, and church family took care of me. It was amazing how God never left my side, even when I had moved because I was sick or medication made me gain weight and my marriage was ending. Today I’m just so happy, blessed, to see another birthday, and closer to God because I know he never left my side.

What I’ve learned is that cancer provides an individual the opportunity to really connect from within their own soul. “Every” journey is different and it is only through understanding who you are as a person that the courage and confidence comes to enhance your personal victory!

I have been lucky enough to enjoy far more “ups” than “downs” in this life. Breast cancer was no different! It changed my life in ways that have had more of a positive impact than I ever would have experienced otherwise.
Life takes interesting paths. I am walking this one with many fortunate survivors and will continue to walk it with integrity and honor for all those less fortunate. Here’s to them!!

Have Faith! Believe!

During my treatment I planned a wedding for my daughter and a funeral for my mother. On top of the stresses and complications of chemo. I was still forced to go on as if all was well. It was the support of my husband, mother and father, children, brothers and sisters (in-laws included) that allowed me to maintain my sanity. I am truly grateful for my family and friends! It was also networks like the Sisters Network, YMCA Livestrong Program, the Duke Hospital medical care providers, the “Look Good Feel Great” program, Eat Smart Move More program and other fellow cancer survivors that helped push me to recovery… and
“I wouldn’t take nothing for my journey now.” (Maya Angelou)
Peace and blessings!

My Walk with Cancer
I contributed to the cancer walks long before I was ever diagnosed. I did so in memory of two aunts, one the sister of my mother, the other a sister of my father; both of whom lost their battle. I contribute and walk now in support of myself, my daughter, my sisters and all women who are potential SURVIVORS! Cancer has taught me to be grateful! Life is precious – I am a survivor! That is a lot to be thankful for. My participation in the NC study was my effort to assure other women a brighter, healthier future. It will be so because we will find a cure for cancer!

Isaiah 41:10, 13
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee:
be not dismayed; for I am thy God:
I will strengthen thee;
yea, I will help thee;
yea, I will uphold thee with the right
hand of my righteousness.
For I the Lord the God will hold thy
right hand, saying unto thee,
Fear not: I will help thee.”

My Life’s Been Touched by Catherine Janssen Irwin
I’ve heard it said that dreams come true –
Now I can say, “They really do.” For I’ve been blessed in numerous ways
By starlit nights and sunny days.
I’ve walked both sides of life’s street;
I’ve soared with joy, sank with despair,
Never without someone to care.
Each season’s beauty brings a kiss
That can create a subtle bliss;
An animal’s love, a bird in flight
Can bring my heart such sweet delight.
The joy of friendship and true love
Are surely gifts from heaven above;
From this life I’ve gathered much
For by God’s hand I have been touched.