Hello Everyone:

I feel that I can finally say it………..I AM A CANCER SURVIVOR. 🙂

10 years ago, on September 1, 2011, I had the last of my 25 radiation treatments and thus completed my year long bout with that terrible disease called Cancer. From the lump – to diagnosis – to 6 aggressive chemo sessions – 2 surgeries and countless painful and sleepless nights. I have survived to mark this milestone. 10 YEARS – CANCER FREE!! (And how appropriate – that #82 – when you add those numbers together equals 10!) LOL.

I thought I had read somewhere that to get to 10 years was a big deal. There are many recurrences I have heard and been told about that happen between the 5-10 year timeframe. Recently, there have been two people I know who have been told that they have cancer….again. Sadly when announced, in stage 4 and not looking great. One fights on, the other, has passed. It is an important reminder that we need to always stay vigilant and still, a little paranoid. We cannot take anything for granted.

While we are still going through the pandemic, I did manage to have a get together to celebrate this special milestone. Not as grandiose as I had originally imagined last year when I had proposed having a celebration, but it was wonderful nonetheless.

I hosted a small gala at The National Club – where we could be safe. 35 in a room that can hold 150+. Even had a dance floor and DJ. Who knew you could still do that during Covid?! And of course, a new ball gown – for my “coming out from kicking cancer” party! 😉

With heartfelt gratitude to everyone who have been with me then, now and going forward – I am looking forward to the next 10 years and beyond.

Hugs and LOVE! Winnie, the Warrior. XOXO