MEET LINDA
Had it. Fought it. Survived it! My name is Linda and I was only 39 years old when I found out that I had breast cancer. I never thought that cancer ran in my family until my oldest sister, Cynthia was diagnosed first. She was not only my sister, but truly the love of my life. Cynthia died in 2001 and I still miss her every day.
My own diagnosis began with a routine exam. My nurse felt something unusual and found a lump in my left breast. Through Cynthia’s ordeal, I was already educated enough to know that I had to move forward with treatment immediately. Through lots of tears, I prayed for my own life. I found comfort through my faith and reminded myself daily that I am a child of God.
I had a lumpectomy and my tumor was a size of a pea. After that, I received radiation treatments for five days per week for six weeks. After the first two weeks, I suffered burning, peeling and so much discomfort. I have to admit, during that time, I asked God a few times if he was still with me. But I endured and I constantly reminded myself that I would get through this, I would be okay!
“Having to fight cancer is something I never expected, but now, I seize every opportunity to celebrate my health and my life.”
I even find myself saying “I’m blessed to be stressed.” It’s a reminder that life, even with its troubles is a blessing every day. We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed and broken. We are perplexed, but we don't give up and quit. Thanks to family, friends and most of all my Heavenly Father above, I am now a beautiful 62 years old!