[Mary Jo]

I can sure relate. I work in the school system as well. In 2005, right after school got out, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Needless to say, that summer sucked. Mastectomy July 28, 2005 and chemo began Aug. 24, 2005. I went back to school 1 week after chemo began training a sub to help me through the year. (I feed approx. 300 children per day breakfast and lunch and I work all alone) Thankfully, I was able to work mostly all of the school year just missing a few days after chemo treatments. Summer 2006 was much better but still many fears and still on herceptin. This summer 2007 was the best of all and I am NOT ready to go back TOMORROW. Tomorrow is just meetings day but still.........I DON'T WANT TO GO! I am thankful for my summers off and the time I get to just enjoy the summer weather, my wonderful grandkids and all the mentoring I do.

Like Becky, I mark my anniversary's as well. My first one we went out to dinner. This past one (number 2) I got a pink ribbon tattoo on my left foot, on the top, off to the side.

So, I know how you feel. The fears of the unknown while we experience our aches and pains from head to toe can be overwhelming no doubt BUT I think having our work to go back too helps. If it were summer everyday it would be fine to be home doing our thing but being cooped in all winter would do be no good at all. Work is a blessing for sure.

Happy school year. MAKE it great!

Mary Jo