My Why.

Posted by Lisa Noel on February 28, 2020 4:00 PM EST

I have been with the American Cancer Society for going on five years in the same role. I volunteered for many years prior to becoming a staff partner with the society. That being said my why goes back many years to my very own battle. When I was 26 years old I was diagnosed with 2 cancers at the same time. I had cervica and uteran cancer simultaneously. My son was also, diagnosed with autism that same year so you can say it was a very trying time for me. I probabely cried myself to sleep every night that year. Now fast forward to my 31st birthday and I went to the doctor for allergies and leave the office with a ultra cound scheduled for the neck. They could clearly see tumors in my neck. Now mind you I went to a previous doctor for many years telling them I didn't feel well. Their response was "its all in your head." After an ultra sound, fine needle biopsy through my neck, and many nights of no sleep. I was called into the doctors office to find out that I again have cancer but this time thyroid cancer. At this point I was starting to experience PTSD from medical offices, medications, and procedures being done to me. Thankfully this a very curable cancer however, my body did not respond well to everything and I was unable to work for an extended amount of time or take care of my son at this time. I again was left crying myself to sleep every night for a year. That was when I was invited to the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Wellington by a dear friend who in a sense tricked me. She invited me to dinner and took me to a committee meeting. Maybe I should do that? All jokes aside I felt a sense of community and support by everyone. They all wrapped their arms around me and I not only did my first Relay For Life over night that year but I put together the counties first Bark For Life. It was a magical year for me to be apart of something so special. That is why I Relay and I will always Relay. Now I have another Why! My father who is 81 and has dementia has bladder and prostate cancer. He needs 12 weeks of 5 days of week of radiation. I can't drive him everyday due to work. Therefore, the American Cancer Society's Road to Recovery has been taking him to treatment every single day. I owe the Society a great deal of gratitude for their services! The Road to Recovery means so much to a patient who do not have the means to get to treatment. We take for granted the things we can do for ourselves. The Road to Recovery volunteers lend their seat to complete strangers in order for them to receive treatment and get well. For that I am forever greatful! This is Why! The Mission!