Doreen

In 2004, at the age of 47, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I had heard of this type of cancer before, but I didn't have a lot of information about it. My knowledge was vague -who gets it and how? I never thought it could be me. I never really thought about it at all. At that time, not a lot of information was available and there were no commercials or magazine ads like there are today about HPV and cervical cancer. There were no patient or survivor stories either. It was a very scary time for me. I felt alone, mostly because I didn't personally know anyone who knew more about this disease than I did. Throughout my life, I've always been able to overcome challenges and rise above adversities. Being diagnosed in 2004, presented the biggest challenges I had ever known. What I experienced in the months that followed changed my life forever. I had surgery, endured chemotherapy, and radiation treatments all which presented new challenges far beyond anything I could have every imagined. I went through all of this with an uncertainty of what to expect or whether or not I would survive. I had this silent courage within me, a strength within me - I never allowed myself to think this was something I would not overcome. All I knew for sure was I had cancer. I dug deep, did extensive research and prayed, prayed and prayed. It worked for me - I'm a SURVIVOR...... I never gave up! Today, once again, I am proud to say "I'm a Survivor!" In 2009, I was introduced to Tamika Felder, and her organization "Tamika and Friends", and the wonderful work they do to educate, empower, and support cervical cancer patients and survivors. I knew instantly - within minutes - I wanted to be a part of the work they were doing. Today, I am a part of the Tamika and Friends team and look forward to contributing and supporting the mission. After meeting Tamika, I learned how important it is to know other cervical cancer survivors and to share our stories. I hadn't known any survivors before her. I now know that emotional healing is also an important part of the recovery process. Thank you Tamika!