Life After Cancer
By Debbie Williams
My name is Debbie Williams and I am a 7-year breast cancer survivor. I promised to write “my story” and found out that it is harder then I thought. So, I searched through my cancer box, yes I have a cancer box! Full of my cards and letters I received throughout by battle with cancer. I found “my story”, one that I wrote 6 years ago. It is funny how as I read it, I think this is perfect, I don’t want to change a thing. That is my story and I am sticking to it! But there is more to my story, much more…
My Story 2000
A lot has happened to me since my breast cancer diagnosis in January 2000. I feel connected to every other cancer survivor. It is like finding a family you did not know existed. My experiences have brought me to a different place, I will never look at life the same.
I am 43 years old; I have been happily married for 20 years to Glenn. I have two teenage children Glenn and Lauren. We have drawn each other in closer this past year and have leaned on each other during difficult times. My first week or so following my diagnosis was so overwhelming. I could not help but feel like I wanted to step back in time, to before my routine mammogram, when I was healthy. I was afraid of dying and could not shake the weight of that off my shoulders. Sleep was difficult, not only for me, but my husband as well. It was the first time I had ever seen my husband cry. We were so scared. Our future together, goals and plans we made were suddenly so uncertain. Sharing my experience with family and friends has helped me a great deal. Talking about my mastectomy, chemotherapy, hair loss, breast reconstruction, as well as my fears, hopes and dreams, this is my therapy. I am a registered nurse. I have worked at Alexian Brothers Medical Center for 18 years. I have now, myself, had the privilege of receiving care there. I tell my patient that the people at the hospital really do care, I know this first hand.
As I look back on my surgeries and treatments. I am proud of myself, I did very well, but I did not do it alone. My mother took me to every chemo session, afterwards, she took me out to a different restaurant where we ‘pigged out” before the nausea would set in. Every flat space in my house was occupied with flowers and cards that reassured me I was not alone. It was no longer the diagnosis that overwhelmed me, but the love and concern for others that endeared me. I now celebrate life. I celebrate my negative blood tests. I thank God often for my blessings. I want to experience as much as I can now! So if my husband asks if I want to sit this one out or dance. I DANCE!
My Story 2007
It has been 6 years since I wrote that story. I think it is about time that I wrote Chapter 2. When I wrote my story I worked in the pre-operative holding area, where I would help patients finish getting ready for surgery. I met many women there that were also beginning their own journey with breast cancer. I always shared my own story with them, letting them know that I too was as frightened as they are, but it was really going to be ok. Two years after my diagnosis there was a job opening that was brought to my attention. A Breast Center Coordinator, a nurse who helps newly diagnosed breast cancer patients through our healthcare system, who could provide resources and support needed to battle their cancer. It had my name on it-I took it and ran! I hold that position today in large part due to Patti Baker, Vice President, she inspires us all to do what is best for our patients. This has made me even more devoted to my patients and their families as they face challenges brought on by cancer. In the community, I am involved in many organizations that have assisted in helping my patients, such as the American Cancer Society, Well Woman Coalition of DuPage County and the board of directors of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. I hope to make a difference not only today, but also for future patients. The best part of my job hands down are my patients. I have learned so very much from them. I smile when they can’t thank me enough for my help and I think of all the women that they too will help, through their support and knowledge. They have taught me what bravery is, what support can mean, how to live and most importantly how to die. I owe so much to those who have lost their battle with cancer. They have taught me more than they will ever know and their memory will always be in my heart. I feel privileged to have been a part of their lives, their wishes, hopes and dreams. I dedicate my career to them for I feel them by my side always. I am a 7-year breast cancer survivor today… who knows what tomorrow will bring.
