[Mary Jo]

Dear "Sisters" ~

6 years ago this week (June 24, 2005 - Friday afternoon @ 3:00 p.m.) my ob/gyn called to tell me I had breast cancer. I will never forget that day as long as I live. I was home alone when I received the call and remember how it felt as if my world had been changed forever. I remember feeling as if I'd never laugh or smile again.

After I hung up the phone I sat down on the bed in our spare bedroom. I remember praying and saying to God that if I ever needed Him, it was now. I also asked Him to use whatever it was I would go through for His glory. I remember praying the verse from Romans (8:28 to be exact) often. That verse says "for we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.". I was sure at that time I was going to die.

Here I am 6 years later.......bilateral mastectomies, 8 cycles of bi-weekly chemo, 1 year of every 3rd week herceptin, 25 radiation treatments AND at my 3 year cancerversary had bilateral DIEP. I am healthy and happier than ever. Yes, my life has been forever changed and yes, God did work it all for good. Not just because I survived (because eventually something will take my life) but because I have learned the truly important things in life. Loving......serving and praising Him. Nothing else matters.

May His Peace be with each of you.

Mary Jo