a Brief Portrayal

Breast Cancer History: I was diagnosed with DCIS breast cancer in June 2002.  I had a lumpectomy in July 2002 and had to have the procedure repeated a week later because clear margins were not determined in the biopsy report.  I had 38 radiation treatments ending in Fall 2002.  I have since been cancer free and completed my Tamoxifen drug for preventive measures in October, 2007.

Breast Cancer Volunteer Work:  I have volunteered for the Montgomery Cancer Wellness Foundation for several years, participating in breast cancer awareness fashion shows and the Tournament of Hope event.  I participate in Relay for Life as well as the Walk of Life.  I am now certified with the American Cancer Society in the Reach To Recovery program, and  I have mentored several patients undergoing surgery or treatments for breast cancer.  I received the 2007 Susan G. Komen "Local Hero" of  Montgomery award.  I now serve as president of the Women of Hope Foundation.

Other Volunteer Work:  I have been a member of the Ladies’ Social Committee at the Capital City Club of Montgomery where I chaired the breast cancer luncheon each October. I have delivered Meals on Wheels once a month and served on various Frazer United Methodist Church organizations as well.

Family:  I have been married to my husband, John, for almost 42 years.  We have 3 grandsons, Brayden, Braxton and Colton  and 1 granddaughter, Brynlee.

Education:  I graduated from Auburn University with a major in mathematics.

Job:  I am a retired Data Processing Technical Support Specialist.  The majority of my time is now spent working with Women of Hope and spending time with my 3 adorable grandsons and granddaughter.

Additional Comments:  I founded Women of Hope (Women Of Montgomery Embracing and Nurturing Hope Of Prevention and Eradication of breast cancer) in October of 2006 to educate, promote awareness and provide hope and encouragement for those families coping with breast cancer.  No matter where you are on your journey, the power of support can never be underestimated.  HOPE is the assurance that one day we’ll be able to live cancer free!

The inaugural luncheon and fashion show fundraiser event was held in October 2006.  Since that time we have become a growing organization hoping to expand to multiple fundraising events each year.  As a breast cancer survivor myself, I feel that there is a need to promote breast cancer awareness in our community.  Women of Hope is striving to be a community for the cause!

“Breast cancer does not define me as a woman…..but, the fight for a cure does!”  We are in this fight together. You never know when you may hear those four dreaded words, “You have breast cancer”.  Help is desperately needed to give Hope and help to those families struggling with this disease.”  “Cancer is like a terrorist.  You never know when it's going to strike."