Wellness

"Cancer isn’t a death sentence."Name: Vicki FleitzAge: 54Job: Certified Pharmacy Technician at La Grange KrogerDiagnosis: Stage 2 / Stage 3 invasive ductal carcinoma, March 2013How She Found Out: I did a self-exam, felt the lump where I was then sent for a mammogram that led to me getting a biopsy.How Did This Change You: I used to be just fine sitting in the back and not being the center of attention, but after my experience in fighting cancer, I began to find my voice and my courage. I have been able to help five friends with their battle [...]

"Before I would get stressed over the smallest things and now realize it is not worth it. Just take it for what it is and move on."Name: Kimberly ZinkAge: 44Job: UPS Administrative where I move aircraft parts logistically and coach middle school girls basketball at Hazelwood (New Albany, Indiana)Diagnosis: Stage 3 breast cancer, and positive for BRCA 2 gene, January 2005 (32 years old)Treatments: Chemo and mastectomy, then bilateral mastectomy, complete hysterectomy and reconstructionHow Did you Cope With Stress/Fear: When I would stress over this situation or any other situation I just breathe and exercise if I can. [...]

Judie G. Sherman, 83, gained a new appreciation for life after her stage three breast cancer diagnosis in 1975. After having 25 radiation treatments, a radical mastectomy, and prophylactic surgery, Judie didn’t lose her vivacious spirit. “I learned to be grateful daily for all the gifts bestowed upon me, especially little things I could have easily overlooked: the sun shining, raindrops lingering on flower petals, the leaves beginning to turn colors. All that surrounded me became brighter and more beautiful.” Judie says she prayed regularly, exercised, and turned to friends and family for comfort. “Call on [...]

Resilience has become a philosophy of living for Alana Auslander-Price who was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer in 2012. After enduring multiple treatments, which included having a double mastectomy and oophorectomy, Alana, 42, had a dragonfly tattooed on her scars instead of having breast reconstruction.The dragonfly, Alana says, symbolizes resilience and after five years, she hasn’t broken her stride. Alana believes breast cancer patients shouldn’t let their diagnosis be the defining factor of their lives and says women have more power over their outcome when they take control of their health. “Don’t ever [...]