Lydia Kemerling Back

Survivor

Strength

When you hear the word strength you think of physical strength. But there is the kind that you find from within to help face life’s challenges. I had to find that strength when I was diagnosed at age 38 and told that I would need a lumpectomy ,radiation and 6 months of chemo . My Mom was my caregiver and the strongest women I have ever known. She would always have words of encouragement even when my hair was falling out ,or I was sick from the chemo. I would pace the floor at 2 am because I was scared, she was too but her strength helped me through. My newly found strength was tested when just 1 month after my last treatment she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and given just 3-6 months to live. I knew I had to be strong for her as she was for me .She passed 14 months after her diagnosis. Today because of her I am a proud 24 yr SURVIVOR!! People that knew her will say to me ,”you know you are just like your Mom”. And I say ,thanks ,thanks Mom. We are all stronger than we think, never give up!