Lydia Kemerling Back

Survivor

STRENGTH!!

As a survivor we are sometimes asked what 1 word describes our cancer journey. My word is strength. When you hear that word most people think of physical strength,but there is also the kind the comes from within to help face lifes challenges.I had to find that strength when I was diagnosed at age 38 and was told I would need a lumpectomy,radiation and 6 months of chemptherapy.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 and I was always sick from the chemo. I would pace the floor at 2 am becauses I was scared. She was scared too but her strength would help me through those dark times. My newly found strength was tested when just 1 month after my last treatment, my Mom 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 away 14 months after her diagnosis. Today because of her I am a 25 yr SURVIVOR!! People that knew her will sometimes say to me,”you know you are just like your Mom”. With a smile on my face and a tear in my eye I simply say thanks…..Thanks Mom

I am a 25 yr SURVIVOR!!