Breast Cancer Awareness
1 in every 8 women will be struck with this terrible disease. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2004, I feel every woman, young and old needs to know that it is not just a lump or bump, it can be anything that is not normal to the touch. Mine was just a slight line under the skin. I truly believe the best prevention is to know your own body. Early detection is key. Performing self exams is crucial.
I will never forget the day I heard the "C" word. I was numb, I was shocked, I was in total disbelief. I didn't fall into any of the typical catergories, i.e, over weight, lack of exercising, lack of a balanced diet. So how could I have cancer?
The number one empowerment tool, is to know your body. If you feel any thing which is not normal to you, bring it to your doctor's attention. Insist on the healthcare provider to take notice of your situation. Early detection can save your life.
Art & Cancer
While going through and recoverying from the tedious treatments of chemotherapy and radiation,I had a lot of time to think about my life. What could I do differently in helping others going through their cancer journey. My art always gave me peace, strength and energy, why couldn't it help others.
In 2008, I was given a opportunity of a lifetime through my dear friend, Bea Braswell, who encouraged me to enter my artwork into the Raritan Bay Medical Center's Spring Art Show, "Inspirations." This event benefits the Wilentz Cancer Foundation. Through her encouragement and belief in me, this was the begininng of a wonderful purpose to my cancer.
Another wonderful experienced happened in 2008, I came across the Lily Pharmaceutical Oncology on Canvas juried art exhibit and decided to enter a piece entitled "Ripples." I was estastic when it was accepted. My artwork, along with 600 other pieces toured different cities in the United States. (see below)
St. Luke's Cancer Center gave me hope through their expertise healthcare from the doctors, the nurses and their support staffs. So it would be somewhat ironic that part of the Lilly Oncology on Canvas exhibit was loaned to St. Luke's Cancer Center in October 2009. But even more ironic that St. Luke's Cancer Center would be able to obtain "Ripples," and honor me that evening. It was a moment in time which will never be forgotten in my heart.
"Ripples"
2008 Lilly Oncology on Canvas Exhibit
In 2009, I donated three pieces of artwork from my Water Lily series to The Wellness Center of Lehigh Valley. The support groups which I attended, were very crucial to me my healing process. Listening to others going through their cancer journeys and trying to help them cope through it, gave me sense that just listening can help other's heal.
In September of 2009, I donated various pieces to Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Fox Chase Cancer Center was where I had my reconstruction surgery. Dr. Neal Topham's knowledge of breast reconstruction gave me the confidence that I would be whole again.
Each year I feel very blessed to have the wonderful healthcare doctors, nurses and support staff with me through this terrible chapter of my life.
Although, I always had the passion for art, I believe going through my cancer oddessy changed my whole perspective on many things, it was the turning point in my life that made me realize the talent I possessed was being wasted. I know they say every story has a silver lining, and so art is mine.
To my mentor and my hero, my mother. Believing in me, more then I believed in myself at times, this website is dedicated to you.
"Don't count the seconds in your life, make every second count"
- S.H. Schaffer