The fight was on!
I was diagnosed in 2005 with Breast Cancer, a small lump in the right breast. I found it, while breast feeding my fourth child. A mammogram was performed and they said don’t worry it looks like a Fibroma! Because of the breast cancer in my family a biopsy was performed. Breast cancer has taken the life of my mother, three aunts and my sister all at early ages.
I was determined it would not take mine. So, I chose to fight!
I underwent a complete mastectomy and reconstruction on the same day! No lymph node involvement, so chemotherapy became an option. I chose not too utilize chemotherapy, but to fight! A year in a half later the cancer had spread to my lymph nodes under my right arm, another surgery to remove the nodes, all cancerous! I choose not to give up, but to fight! Chemo and radiation recommended this time.
July 18th, 2008 I celebrated my one year of going through treatments of chemo, radiation and alternative care, along with vitamin therapy.
 What have I learned?
I’ve learned, not to give up! To smile, because each day is a gift from God. Encouraging and helping others allows me to heal and feel needed. Talking with other cancer patients creates a special bond of sisterhood! Know your disease. There is power in knowledge. Be your own advocate. Take charge of your health. But most of all FIGHT and when you can’t, allow others to fight for you, in prayer, with meals, cleaning your house or watching the kids.
Whatever it takes! But never give in. Continue to fight for your will to live!
I found journaling my thoughts on a Cancer website a great way to communicate with others at CAREPAGES.COM. Just type in my name, Ovie Marshall and read my story, as I continue to fight…I am a licensed Skin Care Specialist and motivational speaker. I can be reached at OvieMarshall@comcast.net.
Remember, “Where there is Hope… Faith prevails.” And believing you have won the battle is half the cure.
God’s Blessings,
Ovie Marshall
Thank you so much for sharing your story!!
Thank you so very much for sharing your story. I admire your strength! You are an amazing woman and in my eyes a hero. I wish you could have met my sister. She lost her battle with breast cancer 7 years ago at the age of 28, but she was a fighter and was so passionate about touching the lives of other women who were facing a battle with breast cancer. She wrote a children’s book that we had published after she passed. It was titled “Mommy’s Head Tickles”. It was looking at breast cancer from her daughter’s eyes. I would love to send you a copy if you would like one. She always said “Never give up and remember to keep smiling”. She had a BEAUTIFUL smile, as do you! Reading your story reminded me of how strong she was and how strong as women and mothers we can and should be. God Bless You!