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With my 60th birthday coming up fast, I wanted to do something I had never done before, but what? I am not a particularly adventurous person, but I decided that now was the time to break out.. January 4 th I read about this amazing adventure, but put it aside as not for me, (a little too daring). However a few days later it popped up again and said “try me”. I tentatively stepped out of my comfort zone and embarked on this daring and adventurous journey. Almost before I knew it all the arrangements were finalized, and here I am part of this fantastic group of women. I am eager and excited to meet them and hear their stories. I had breast cancer in 1989 and again in 2001. I carry the BRCA2 gene so am part of the Hereditary Cancer Program in Vancouver. Being part of this group ensures wonderful medical care, and also allowed my children to be tested to see if they carry the gene. Waiting for test results was traumatizing, not only for me, but especially for my daughter who has three little girls. Three of my four children have been tested and only one son tested positive. I am very appreciative of this opportunity to raise funds to help eradicate this disease. I am entering my fifth year of good health. This is a milestone year and a good time to celebrate. I spend as much time as I can with my children and grandchildren. My daughter and her family live in Kamloops. My oldest son is married and lives in Saskatchewan and my younger two sons live in Vancouver. They have been and remain an amazing support for me especially during the past five years. Being a survivor of this disease has made me realize how very precious are the pleasures I share with my family and friends. One of the highlights of this diagnosis and survival has been the opportunity to join Abreast In A Boat. This Dragon Boat Team is made up entirely of breast cancer survivors. Through this organization I have traveled to Singapore and South Africa to take part in regattas and raise breast cancer awareness. The support and excitement of being part of this team, as well as the physical benefits of keeping in shape, have been major factors in my healing. I work in the office of a vibrant Anglican Church in Richmond. Each day keeps me in touch with all types of people and their enthusiasm for life has been a gift to me.. I also work for the Vancouver Civic Theatres in Vancouver and have met many wonderful and talented people there. Thank you to my family and friends who are supporting me in prayer and also thanks to those of you who are supporting me financially.
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