Breast Cancer Survivor Volunteer – Faye

Faye, a volunteer for the Survivors
Helping Survivors program.

I’m a proud wife, mother and volunteer. I enjoy reading, golfing, crafting, cooking, travel and life in general.

I’m a three time breast cancer survivor. I was first diagnosed with a left breast tumor in 1996 at the age of 51, then with metastatic breast cancer to my breast bone in 1999 and a right breast tumor in 2003. My treatment has included a mastectomy in 1996 and a second mastectomy with bilateral DIEP flap reconstruction in 2003. I have also had chemotherapy twice and radiation once.

What helped me cope was my faith, family and friends are my support. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 says it far better than I can express.

Being a breast cancer survivor has taught me that every day is a gift. A smile, a kind word, a hug can touch someone's heart and make them feel that they “matter.”

I volunteer because the selfless generosity given to me during my time of need makes me forever grateful. To give back some of that love and care is a joy. It is a privilege to be a survivor volunteer.

One piece of advice I would give to a newly diagnosed woman would be to have faith, (Psalm 103:2) try not to dwell on the negative, focus on getting well and being positive. Keep a journal.