Describe your journey to diagnosis:
I actually felt a lump in my left breast so it led me to have it checked out. My initial reaction was “WOW!” How do I explain it to my kids who were seven and 13 at the time? I called my dad and he read the poem “Let Go and Let GOD” and that’s exactly what I did!
What has been your biggest challenge on your journey?
My biggest challenge was asking for help because I was used to doing everything for my kids and I. GOD humbled me and showed me I couldn’t do it on my own and if I kept trying I would not make it!
What are you most grateful for?
I’m most grateful that GOD saw fit to give me a second chance at life. I’m still here with my daughter who is now a senior. He has blessed me to share my story, the opportunity to share a stage with Joan Lunden, and for my kids and I to be blessed with a brand new car from Ford and The Real. I know cancer comes in to steal your peace and joy, while turning your world upside down, but let me tell you, it changed my life.
In what ways do you think being a woman of color impacted your breast cancer journey?
I’ve been blessed to see this journey for what it is —a journey! I pray my journey and story will remind you of how real faith is. This journey impacted me by showing me breast cancer doesn’t give a damn and can come at any age.
How did breast cancer impact your relationships with friends or family?
When I was going through treatment the calls were more frequent than they are now.
If you could make people “aware” of one thing about breast cancer what it be and why?
That it has no age limit and you have to be your own advocate for your body. You have to pay attention to your body so if you notice changes you can catch it early. Also, know your family history because that can help save your life
What are your words to live by?
Let go and let GOD! My dad read a poem to me the day I was diagnosed called Let Go and Let GOD, and it changed my life!
What advice would you give to a newly diagnosed woman?
If I could share one word with newly diagnosed women and survivors it is FAITH! You gotta have faith whether it’s a mustard seed or a mountain of faith, you have to tap into it. Hearing you have cancer at any age can be overwhelming, but walking in your faith can get you through. Also, trust your intuition and especially your medical team. Ask questions and if possible have someone to be with you at appointments to hear what your missing.
I’m here to tell you that #YouTooCanCerVive!
