June Turner

Survivor

I was diagnosed with Stage 0 breast cancer in 2018. I was so confident I didn’t have it, I had no family members with me on the day I was told the news. Big blow to my faith. I was 100% sure God would not allow this in my life as I had a young family. I had a lumpectomy and 33 rounds of radiation. I was determined to not let my diagnoses interrupt my family’s schedule. I didn’t miss a day of work or any of the activities or events of my family. I even walked out of a radiation treatment because they were running behind. I refused to be late picking up my kids. I didn’t share the news beyond my immediate family and close friends. I didn’t want anyone feeling sorry for me. I didn’t want to be a subject of whispers when I was around. Fast forward a year later I am in a totally different space! The diagnosis pushed me or rather catapulted me out of my comfort zone. I lost 45 lbs; I make myself the first priority everyday; I have a bucket list; I’ve finally learned to say ‘no’ without feeling guilty or giving an explanation; I feel totally in love with myself; I am no longer conservative; I feel sexy for the 1st time in my life. I made a decision the rest of my life will be the best of my life! I am survivor strong. However, I like the title of advocate better. Since my diagnosis, I have pushed every woman I know to get their yearly mammograms. Two women were diagnosed with breast cancer from my urging. One with Stage 0, the other with Stage 2. I reconciled my faith in God and now thank him for allowing me to have Breast Cancer. I embrace my role as an advocate. Every journey is different, this one is mine. I wouldn’t recommend doing it the way I did. There is support out there: ask for it, take it! I pray for every women battling breast cancer and may you all become survivor strong!💞😘