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It was my daughter’s 13 th birthday on November 11 th2004 when I felt the lump on my breast. I went straight to the hospital only to have my worst fears confirmed. Being 43yrs of age and due to my own breast cancer awareness I had been going for regular mammograms but it had somehow gone undetected. It was completely devastating. I was emotionally wrecked. 2 weeks later I had a bilateral mastectomy, chemotherapy for 5 months and just completed my reconstruction surgery in June. Being widowed and limited sources in South Africa my support system was pretty dim. I do have the support of my daughter “ Cheyenne” who has been wonderful and who I share a very close relationship with. When you get cancer, you realize things about life and people. I’ve had to try hard to surround myself with positive things and people. I’ve been fortunate to have some very special people touch my life through this journey. Other patients have offered the most wonderful support and through their experiences I have gained such a strong sense of love, strength & support. I have some very special doctors looking after me too. I also want to give to those going through this and that are to follow. That is why this is so important and Breast Cancer Awareness is needed worldwide. I was born in Chicago and moved to South Africa in 1984. In 1996 I was instrumental in the official launch of Harley Davidson in South Africa and at this time I learned how to ride. Still feeling the sadness of losing my husband in a car crash, my riding became my journey of soul searching and a common bond with others. I had lived in Houston, Texas from 1997-2001 and I rode with the HOG chapter “ Houston Area 1” and the “Ladies of Harley” which at this time had started to become active with Breast Cancer Awareness. My cousin Eileen had died of breast cancer in 1996 as she was diagnosed in a very advanced stage. I can’t believe I too would face this diagnoses. I know because of my awareness I was able to pick mine up at an earlier stage. It is true if breast cancer is detected at an early stage you can survive this! This whole breast cancer journey reminds me of some harsh rides I have been caught in. Even when the weather was so against you, somehow you can reach your destination and be stronger and more enriched for it.
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