I knew it was cancer. Not because I’m pessimistic, but as Nancy Reagan said when she received her breast cancer diagnosis, “It’s my turn.”
My mom, Mary Myers, received her breast cancer diagnosis on Thursday, June 5, 2008. As she spoke the words to me “it is cancer” – it was as if I had already heard them, like I had already lived that moment. I was ready to start the journey with her.
Millions of women and their families are affected by breast cancer each year, and for whatever reason, God had already prepared me for that moment of truth. Some family members and friends cried out of fear and compassion, others had just the right words of support to offer, I was just ready to fight. My mom will not die from this disease.
Through surgery and the initial stages of chemotherapy, my mom has been solid – she’s a pillar of strength, a figure of deep faith and an inspiration to others. She has taken the news of her diagnosis, the surgery and treatments, the poking, the prodding, the associated discomfort and pain – all with courage and her head held high.
On Saturday, October 25, 2008, I will proudly walk with Mary’s Team at the 2008 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Des Moines, Iowa. I’ve been involved with Race before, as a walker, a supporter of the many women and families affected by breast cancer. This year, I will support the most important woman in my life as she graciously, without question, takes her turn.
“Race day was filled with anticipation, emotion and an incredible sense of support and camaraderie.”
- Daphne C., Mary’s Team (and Mary’s daughter!)
“The Race was awesome. It was an honor to be a part of such a large group of people who care and are supporting the same cause. It was especially an honor to have a team organized for me personally. I am proud to call Des Moines ‘home’ - a city that really cares and has such an excellent medical team.”
- Mary M., the “Mary” of Mary’s Team
“Such an overwhelmingly emotional experience to see thousands of people all there to support and encourage survivors and to make their pledge to overcome the threat of breast cancer.”
- Lona L., Mary’s Team
“I absolutely loved being part of the Race For The Cure. It was a wonderful feeling to look from the starting point, down the street and seeing nothing but people everywhere. So many people who are trying to contribute to such a great cause. I would do anything for your Mom. Being part of Mary’s Team was great! And, we will participate again next year!”
- Nanette E., Mary’s Team
“I had been blessed in this life that I was essentially untouched by breast cancer until this year. When my mentor and friend Mary was diagnosed this summer, a feeling of powerlessness overcame me. As a nurse, woman and friend- you want to DO SOMETHING to fight!!! The Race for the Cure gave me that feeling of doing something. Preparing for the race and participating on Saturday was a way in which my daughter and I could honor and support our friend, but also it was a way in which we could emphatically state “NO MORE!” through our actions.”
- Beth B., Mary’s Team
“It is just a blessing to see so many people so passionate about finding a cure for breast cancer. It brought tears to my eyes when I stood at the top of the hill and looked down and saw the thousands of people walking in front of me.”
- Barb F., Mary’s Team
“It was FREEZING. It was FUN!! It was cool to see all those people walking for breast cancer!!”
- Rachel F. (age 13), Mary’s Team
Daphne C. 
