WINNING THE RACE FROM SUPPORTING TO SURVIVING

My family has participated in the Pink Ribbon Run since 2014 when my mom, Jody, was diagnosed with breast cancer. We walked in her name until this year. I would never have dreamed that this year would present one of the toughest things I've ever endured in the same way.

There are three things that I know for certain about breast cancer. Early detection is absolutely critical, a great medical team behind you is key, and a team of warriors who stand beside you is essential. One of those warrior teams that stepped up the day of my diagnosis to help was the Beyond Pink TEAM (BPT). There were so many different ways the BPT offers assistance to breast cancer patients and their families. Emotionally, physically, and financially. Until you're one of them you don't realize how much this cancer consumes you. This team was reaching out to me on day one to provide help navigating cancer. I didn't realize how impactful this group was until I became the patient. It is simply astounding to learn that one of every eight individuals will experience breast cancer in his or her lifetime. Two of those eight will find that they have the most aggressive form of breast cancer. I am one of those two and I can tell you it is not a position I would wish for anyone. By the grace of God early detection and a great doctor gave me a fighting chance to win the race. I really do think of it like a race. You know there's a finish line. You're following the map your medical team gave you but you have no idea if your body is taking you in the right direction. At the time there were nights I just didn't think I was going to be able to take much more. The finish line looked a long ways away back in March. I'm thrilled to report my finish line is in Photos from Virtual Run sight on October 1 which is so fitting as October starts breast cancer awareness month. I reached the finish line as my warriors are making sure of it with them by my side. You are my warriors! Initially, I really didn't want to share the fact that I had breast cancer. It's an overwhelming diagnosis. The last thing you want to do is put your burden on others. But they gave me strength and confidence that I could do this. They made me realize how important it is to share and support one another. I think we are all compassionate in our own ways. However, compassion in cancer gives me an entirely new perspective. . 

While I know they say you're a survivor in your first year I'm anxious to know that by next year when we can all walk together, I can look back at how far I've come. Note: This year’s Pink Ribbon Run had a team, “Jody’s Pack 4-Ever & Debbie’s Warriors” – a family team of 41 supporters for 2 breast cancer survivors, mother and daughter.