I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (Stage 2B) in November 2009 after a routine mammogram. That was the day my life would be changed forever…my life became scans, lab work, procedures, and doctor appointments. I had a double mastectomy on December 30, and chemo February-April 2010….I have never looked back, only forward. I received treatment at The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders in Ft Worth, Texas, home of the most AMAZING staff. Never did I have one unkind nurse, doctor, receptionist, nor lab tech….. they were all knowledgeable, caring, and compassionate.

I’ve always said that if the entire medical community cared and responded to patients the way that the oncology community responds, there would be so many more satisfied patients…. and survivors. Because of the excellent care I received, I decided to spend my retirement volunteering in the chemo room at The Center. Even though outsiders think that I’m helping others, they are really helping me. Cancer ENRICHED my life. I’ve met people that have become wonderful friends, including staff at The Center. I get so much out of the work that I do, and can’t image what my life would be like if I hadn’t had cancer.