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I am a 33 year old 10 year breast cancer survivor. I had been through a few “precautionary procedures” even though it was “probably nothing” before hearing the diagnosis of cancer. I remember saying to the surgeon the week before my diagnosis "if it's not cancer, then what is it?" I was pretty sure we were going that route, but I had no idea what was in store. So after the lumpectomy when the surgeon told me it was cancer, I asked, "what are we going to do about it?" It was the days and weeks that followed that left me feeling so alone while researching mastectomies and chemotherapy (before we all had internet access.) I had heard numerous stories of other survivors, most of whom were old enough to be my mother, and a few who even remembered my mother losing her battle to this disease at the age of 36. I remember asking the doctors for the statistics on young women, and there weren't any. They didn't know any other young women I could speak with, and the information I was given to read was based on women in their 40's. I was told to consider myself part of that group. I eventually made contact with Lori Kennedy, a woman in her 30's, who told me how one day cancer won't be the first thing I think about when I wake up. She introduced me to a young women's support group she facilitated. I was the youngest by 10 years and yet found comfort and others with whom I could relate. I have since taken on the facilitator role of that group and continue to take calls from young women newly diagnosed with breast cancer. About a year ago my father asked if I was tired of taking these calls, and if so perhaps I should stop offering my support to other women. I told him the support I give and the difference that it makes for these women is the one of the most positive outcomes of this experience. Time and time again, I am inspired by the strength of these women battling cancer, and yet somehow they see me as an inspiration. 1995 was my first Bikers Against Breast Cancer event at New York City Harley Davidson, it was just days after my first surgery, and I stood and watched from the side of the road, yearning to ride, hoping for a future, and grateful to those out there riding and supporting the cause. But the sideline is definitely not “warrior princess style”, nor is it where I choose to be these days. I have since graduated college, gotten my motorcycle license, purchased my second Harley, facilitated breast cancer support groups, completed the AVON walk, traveled to the Grenadine Islands to provide healthcare and teach women self breast exam, and I will do the NYC Biker's Against Breast Cancer ride again in 2005. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate my first 10 years of cancer free survival. I am grateful for this chance to combine my love of motorcycling and my mission to help other young women cope with breast cancer. Riding to raise awareness, to change the image of breast cancer survivors, in remembrance of those we’ve lost, in support of those in treatment, and honor of those who have survived this disease is an opportunity of a lifetime. I am thrilled to be part of the 2005 Changing Gears ride.
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