Member Focus
Our own Linda Stuart was recently published in Guideposts magazine. Her inspiring story about her experience surviving breast cancer. You can read her prizewinning article below, or visit the Guideposts website here.
The Sisterhood of the Pink Ribbon
By: Linda Stuart
May 13, 2003 was the day I was inducted into the sisterhood that no one wants to join – Breast Cancer survivors. After the shock of my diagnosis faded, worry set in. Would I have to put my life on hold for chemo and radiation? Losing my hair didn’t really bother me, and I was always sure that I would survive. However, with my son’s wedding coming up, I didn’t want to be an invalid!
The “sisters” who went before me inspired me and gave me hope that I could remain active. There were many… Chris, who told me where to purchase a flattering wig like hers…Kathy, who felt fine during radiation… Louise, who taught elementary phys ed during chemo…and Cristine, who encouraged me every step of the way. With extra rest and help from family and friends, I did great in all my treatments and looked normal. You never have a bad hair day with a wig! Oh, sure, I slowed down some and put recreational shopping on hold, but I continued to work full-time and successfully ran for re-election as township clerk. I thoroughly enjoyed our son’s out-of-town wedding in the midst of chemo, and three weeks later, my husband and I threw a hometown reception for the newlyweds. It was wonderful!
Now I’m a four year survivor, and the sisterhood continues. I met a dejected Theresa just after a nurse told her that chemo would totally zap her energy. Luckily I could tell her that wasn’t necessarily true! She did great in her treatments, and is currently living in the dream home she planned while on chemo. Now she is encouraging other women, too. Long live the sisterhood of the pink ribbon!