Lydia Kemerling Back
Survivor
![](https://www.komen.org/wp-content/uploads/Lydia-1.jpg)
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!