I retired early to help take care of my grandchildren Evelyn and Connor.

 In  December 2023 I underwent a torn meniscus surgery. I was walking with crutches and fell. I got really sore and thought that maybe I tore a muscle. After going to multiple doctors, multiple clinics, and having multiple tests on March 28th I was diagnosed with an aggressive type of breast cancer.My fall saved me! It was a blessing in disguise!

I have always had strong faith. I believe that I should not worry about things I cannot control. With That, I live one day at a time and concentrate on living fully. I love to dance and love music. I grew up doing musical theater . I introduced my four children to music and dance and they all play musical instruments. My grandchildren also are involved with music, dance and the arts! 

I love life and I was certain my cancer diagnosis was not going to change that.

I keep a complete journal with foods I eat, medications/chemo and secondary effects. In order to continue life as normal, it helps me to be able to pinpoint when the effects of chemo kick in so I could schedule/limit my activities accordingly.

I made sure that although I could not taste food [I could smell it) I ate three meals a day and sometimes snacks because I am a non-insulin dependent diabetic and needed to keep it that way.I got a port, completed six rounds of chemo and had surgery!

This is how I fight cancer! 

I have a great group of friends full of positive energy! I have a loving family and two grandkids that give me the incentive to stay up on my feet! I have the best healthcare team who amongst bad news always had a smile, a positive thought and encouraging words! I have faith,  God always decides so I know he got me and he is in control of the plan!

I’m having fun with some bright head wraps. I'm loving the new orange one I got from the African Store. When I receive chemo and hydrating  fluids it feels like a spa because I get a warm blanket, a TV, food and a great group of doctors, nurses and other staff. I weeded and picked some fresh produce from my beautiful garden and looked forward to my other plants…lettuce, raspberries, tomatoes, cucumber, and lots of herbs! I continue to listen to music and dance around!I finally got a picture of me and my BFF/Nurse Navigator Michelle who really makes my care so much easier.

Infusion day is generally scheduled a few days to a week after my chemo to help me stay hydrated. I always say “I’m going to the spa!” because of the super nice and caring staff I interact with. Being surrounded by positivity helps a million! August 15th, 2024  was the last day of chemo!!! 6/6 DONE!!!!! September 25th, 2024 I had surgery. Surgery went well and they think they got ALL the cancer!!!!!! Yes ALL of it!The pathology report came back negative and although I still need to get HP for a year as a preventive measure, I am doing well!

On with Life!!!! 

And like the song says ..”And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance!” [Song by Lee Ann Womack and Sons of the Desert]