Two Breast Cancer Inspirations

I had the privilege on Thursday, October 15, of attending Ellen’s Hope, a luncheon to support the Ellen Shaw de Paredes Breast Cancer Foundation and their commitment to raise the bar in early detection of breast cancer through education, research, and care for the underserved, including a free screening mammogram program for underserved women in the community.

Among the informative and inspirational speakers was the Reverend Anne C. Brower, M.D., a remarkable woman who has practiced medicine for 41 years, served as consultant in the medical care of five presidents, and now serves as senior chaplain at the Washington National Cathedral.

In sharing her own struggle against breast cancer, Dr. Brower differentiated between the disease (the physical manifestations of a body that is troubled), the illness (the patient’s reaction), and the sickness (maladaptive responses from others). It was only after she learned to deal with her own reaction and the responses from others, Dr. Brower reported, that she could begin to heal: “I still had the disease, but I was rid of the rest, [the illness and sickness].”

She also shared words of wisdom for those of us who are trying to help someone facing the disease: “Just go and be,” she said.

For more information on the Foundation, call 804-523-3209.

Cancer for Christmas

I’ve also had the opportunity, unfortunately, of watching a friend combat the disease and then, fortunately, of seeing her beat the cancer, and watching her process of compiling a book to help her share her newfound wisdom and knowledge with others.

The book, Cancer for Christmas, is a fierce and funny, thought-provoking and inspiring story of Casey Quinlan’s journey to cancer-free. It’s both an inspiration and an education in navigating the important fight against cancer. To learn more or order your copy, visit CancerForChristmas.com.