SURVIVOR OR WARRIOR?

A survivor’s story by Ann Whittemore

When I was asked to write a survivor’s story I was honored, however I didn’t realize the feelings and reflection it would provoke. The word survivor evokes thoughts of those who have given everything to overcome unimaginable obstacles – in our case, cancer. I was diagnosed after noticing a lump one Sunday morning in a very conspicuous place. It seemed to have just grown overnight. I surely would have felt it before now: but I hadn’t, and could only wait and hope. The results would come a week later and it was, in fact, a malignant tumor. I had tried to prepare myself, but having lost my parents to cancer and being a mother myself, I realized there is no preparing for the reality of it. I did have a slow growing cancer which allowed me the time to weigh my options and decide the best course of action for me. I had a mastectomy with reconstruction. My choice was based on two things: to eliminate radiation and the chance of my breast producing another tumor. I felt very fortunate to be able to decide my path. I know that many cancer patients don’t get to choose. My post-operatory results showed no signs of any cells spreading beyond my breast and that chemotherapy was not needed. I was blessed in so many ways. I was guided through the countless tests, appointments, and surgeries with the help of some of the most amazing medical professionals. They guided me through this maze when I could barely focus and did it seamlessly. They are the ones I am most grateful for through all of this. I was given prayers, hugs, smiles, kind words, warm hands to hold, and their reassurance when I needed it most. I will be forever grateful. I did have the opportunity to sign the breast cancer survivor wall. In some ways I did not feel worthy of it. Yes, I did survive but I know there are so many others who went, and are going through so much more to earn the title of SURVIVOR. I have also seen first-hand those who have fought an incredibly noble and difficult battle and did not get to share this celebration of life. I remember them as WARRIORS. I continue to pray for all the very special people who hold our hands and guide us through the medical mazes, for the survivors who can appreciate every new day of life, and for those who valiantly fought for every minute of new breath. I also pray that a cure will be something I see in my lifetime so that we will not need to be survivors or lost warriors.