I was diagnosed in May 2011 and had surgery along with a TRAM flap in June. I just finished reading your book and was so very enlightened. Even though I didn’t undergo radiation or chemo, I still read the entire book from cover to cover. As a matter of fact, the section on Support Groups gave me an “ah ha” moment to try to start one in our county. Thank you so much for writing this book!

Barbara and Uplift Sisters, I am beyond honored to have my words published in the 10th anniversary edition of Uplift! I just celebrated my 1 year anniversary of being breast cancer free and got the news about being in the book, what a great anniv gift! Beatin its butt is what I will continue to do!

The day I was undergoing breast cancer surgery, my brother was diagnosed with throat cancer. He fought his battle with unbelievable courage, humor and strength. He is my hero.  He taught me to face cancer with humor, positivity and strength.  I am forever changed for what I witnessed him endure.

I was diagnosed with sarcoma a form of bone cancer in June 2008, received nine months of chemotherapy finishing up treatment in July 2009. It’s been three years post op. For me personally, having a positive attitude got me through the hard days and drawing strength from my religion.

I was just diagnosed with Breast Cancer this past June. I just started my radiation treatment yesterday. I was given a copy of UPLIFT from my sister who was diagnosed last August. We have no history in our family so having 2 of us diagnosed was a shock. I have found UPLIFT so inspiring and want to thank you for writing this book and for all those woman who have contributed. The book has brought me much comfort.

I just celebrated one year since my bilateral mastectomy. Being diagnosed at age 40 was a shock, and the past year has been full of more ups & downs than I could ever imagine, but I got through it all with a smile and the empowering knowledge that I can face anything that comes my way.

Quiet celebrations are sometimes the best kind – I just celebrated my 11th. anniversary! Each year since my lumpectomy I have bought 1 dozen pink roses for my office on the anniversary date. Everyone comments on the lovely flowers and usually asks, ‘what is the special occasion?’, to which I reply, ‘it has been 11 years since I heard the words ‘you have breast cancer’. Many of them didn’t realize I am a survivor, and it gives me a wonderful opportunity to put a positive perspective on how important early detection can be. I am blessed to be healthy and take every opportunity to share my story. It was nearly six years ago when I first made an entry in the online journal. Barbara, your book had such a positive impact on my outlook toward radiation and 5 years of Tamoxifen followed by 5 years of Femara. I considered the radiation treatments and the medication to be ‘warriors’ removing the cancer from my body. At the end of my radiation treatments I gave myself a gift – a lovely ring with a tanzanite trillion cut stone surrounded by 5 small diamonds. It holds a special significance for me and every time I look at my hand I am reminded how God has blessed me. The stories on the Uplift Journal are heartfelt and courageous from women who all understand. Let us all celebrate! Each day is a gift!

I am coming up on my 10th yr. anniversary of survival. I was diagnosed on June 26, 2001 the day my grandson was born.I was 64; happily teaching and my world collapsed. I had a wonderful breast surgeon who did a lumpectomy and a sentinal node procedure.My margins were clear but I did 6 chemo treatments CMF (cytoxin, methotrexate and fleurourocil). I had a wig made but never used it. I was teaching kindergarten and I never lost my hair (on my head that is). I followed with 35 radiation treatments and I never missed a day of school through it all. I took Tamoxifen for 5 years and now I’m on Femara.I decided to retire in 2002 after 40 years of teaching. My checkups are routine. I still see the breast surgeon; radiologist;oncologist and gynocologist. So far, all is well. I have mentored several younger friends, teachers etc. My advice to all is to think positive; go on with your life; keep busy and don’t dwell on the negative side of things.It isn’t easy!I take each day as it comes; I enjoy my time with my husband, children and grandchildren.