Paula Welsh

Survivor

In 2003 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation. I finished my radiation October, 2003. The day after I finished my radiation I walked in a Race for the Cure in Baltimore, MD with 50 people who cheered me on as I crossed the finish line. It as one of the best feelings of my life. Unfortunately, because of the treatment I was put into early menopause. The dream for children ended for me and my husband….or did it? My husband and I decided to try to adopt.. We started our trek toward parenthood on February 29, 2004. I worked hard on paperwork for several months. In October, 2004 we were told it was time to travel to Russia to meet our two children! With my hair still very, very short and still growing in after the chemo, we traveled to meet our precious children. Our son was 4 years and our daughter was 6 months at the time. Years later I can proudly say that I am not only a 13 years survivor, but I am also the mom to the most wonderful teenage boy and a most beautiful young lady. I had attached a picture taken with the kids graduated their respective schools.