Sometimes Just One Little Conversation Can Make Your Day!

I was checking out of my local grocery store today, actually feeling a little depressed, wondering about my future, getting tired of the treatments. My cashier was a young woman I've had many times over the years. She looked at my headscarf and my pink wrist band and said, "Breast cancer?" She took me by surprise--most people look but don't comment. I said, "Yes." She asked where I was in treatment and what stage I was and I told her I was stage 3, post-surgery, post-chemo and just had my 24th of 35 rad. treatments today. Then she said something that completely changed my mood. "I was stage 3 too, had surgery and chemo and that was 17 years ago! Don't give up--you'll get there just like I did." It was so wonderful to hear first hand from a 17-year survivor. I thanked her profusely for noticing me, telling me her story, and keeping my hope alive.

All you survivors out there--it is so great to hear your success stories--especially for those of us currently in treatment, trying to be strong and brave, but still nervous about the future. Linda, from Safeway, you made my day!

Renee