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2009 HONORARY SURVIVORS
 Chris McCloy
El Paso County Honorary Survivor
My mother and I share blue eyes, books, and breast cancer. I was 16 when she discovered her lump. In 1966, radiation, chemotherapy, breast reconstruction and support groups were unknown. She was told if she lived 5 years, she was cured. She beat the odds and faced her cancer with candor and a heavy dose of humor. Because she found her own lump, she was an advocate for regular self-breast exams. It was a life-saving example that led me to pursue a biopsy when I felt a mass that was not visible on the mammogram. I can still hear the note of surprise in the surgeon’s voice: “Darlin’ you’ve got what your Mamma had.”
As a nurse working in a Pediatric/Oncology unit, I was familiar with the clinical side of cancer and I approached my diagnosis as if it were a research project. Unlike my mother, I had choices: breast conservation followed by radiation or mastectomy, chemotherapy and reconstructive surgery? My oncologist and his staff inspired confidence whenever mine was lagging and we discussed every option before reaching an acceptable treatment plan.
I was recovering from a year of treatment and surgery when I read about the Race for the Cure®. I will never forget the scene on that beautiful fall day: hundreds of women in pink shirts RUNNING, laughing, and talking openly about their cancer journey. I was hooked. The following year my mother and daughters joined me in what would become an annual family celebration. For two years, I was a Race volunteer, even pressing my husband into service.
At a Race meeting, I heard a report from the Grant Chair on Komen’s mission to promote regular screening exams. I hated to admit I did not know we supported local grants; I thought most of the money went to Dallas for breast cancer research. I asked to join the committee, progressing to co-chair, chair and later became Secretary for the Board. I can now quote the funding priorities in 2008 and how many mammograms the Affiliate provided in 2007 (1067).
Like many Komen volunteers, I found a positive outlet for an elusive, destructive, disease that robs us of dear friends, sisters and mothers. My family knows that I am in this fight until we find a cure. When I answer the phone at the Affiliate office and talk to a recently diagnosed woman, I am reminded that improved screening, treatment and support have changed the face of breast cancer forever. Komen’s commitment to find a cure has extended my life and inspired hope for countless women. However, please, let that cure be soon. I do not want my daughters to fear the words: “Darlin’ you have what your Mamma had.” |
 Debby Foresta
Pueblo County Honorary Survivor
At the age of 42, I was diagnosed with DCIS (ductile carcinoma in situ.) This was a very scary time in my life: no previous family member had ever had breast cancer. My mother had ovarian cancer, which was cured through a hysterectomy. CANCER, I call it the “ugly C” word, the word that for many says, “Oh my God, I’m not going to be here much longer”.
When I went in for my yearly examination, I was lucky my doctor insisted I get a mammogram. His persistence, the mammo and a wonderful surgeon who talked me into doing what was necessary, are the reasons I am here today. I can’t say that I didn’t think about not doing anything to save my life, and I can’t say I did not cry my eyes out. But my husband jumped in and found out everything he could about breast cancer and stood by me throughout this ordeal. Also, that same year my daughter was expecting my first grandchild. I had a thriving business and much to live for.
I was lucky to have caught this disease early enough that I could have a lumpectomy within 13 weeks. My life changed that year: I lost interest in a lot of things that used to be important to me, and I sold my business and changed my way of thinking. Family and friends became more important, and I basically rested for a year.
I have walked in the Komen Race for the Cure® for 11 years. I believe that we can survive the “ugly C” word with love and understanding from our family and friends, educating ourselves and good, truthful communication with each other and our health care providers.
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Teller County Honorary Survivor
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2007-2009 Colorado Springs Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure
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