Lots to Be Thankful For

Thanksgiving - the annual US holiday which allows you to eat too much, watch the Macy's Parade and herald the arrival of Santa Claus (I never pay attention in the stores until Thanksgiving), suffer through too many football games and get together with relatives and friends.

For many who have been newly diagnosed with breast cancer, or for those currently undergoing treatment, Thanksgiving might seem like either just another day, a cruel joke or you may be wondering if it is your last holiday. (I spent Thanksgiving 1998 in the hospital with cellulitis - this was 2 weeks after my lumpectomy). I am here to tell you that while breast cancer is not pleasant, it IS a learning experience and you will meet and grow to care about a host of new people. You will also be amazed at how many people really, truly are concerned about you.

I'm thankful-

for the wonderful medical team that cared for me and still monitors me - my surgeon, oncologist, social worker, nurses, physical therapist.

my mentor in the research arena, Dr. Jeanette Ezzo, who not only opened my mind and eyes to the possibilities for advocacy, but taught me a love of science (which I never thought possible) and helped me to believe in myself and my capabilities.

the National Breast Cancer Coalition, which fights the political battles for us and demands answers and research dollars.

the national organizations who help women throughout the course of their treatment - the Komen Foundation and Y-Me.

the advocacy groups who fight the fight for all of us - Share, One in Nine, Breast Cancer Help

the websites devoted to our disease and our causes - herSource, Imaginis, Suite101, to name a few

the friends I have made, both in person and online, who continue to be my active cohorts, supporters and sounding board: Jayne, Loretta, Cynthia, Flora, Sue, Jane

the great young adults my children have turned into - Kristen, Jason, Mike - you dealt with my illness head-on as kids and now you are stronger, committed adults.

my parents - who always believed in me and put on every prayer list available and backed me from afar throughout it all

my co-workers - who picked up the slack when I was too ill to deal with mundane details and never ceased to cheer me up the children in the pediatric oncology program at the our hospital. Nothing will bring you back to reality quicker than meeting those amazing kids. Here's to you, Meghan.

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