Last October, I went for my first mammogram because I had turned 40. I left thinking I had checked that off my list of things to do. To my surprise, I received a call back for them to take another look; after multiple mammograms, ultrasounds, and biopsies, I was told I had breast cancer. Wow...that was not what I was expecting. I had run a 1/2 marathon each month last year (2020). I ate pretty healthily. I thought I was taking care of myself, but God needed to use me........
I remember having a heart-to-heart with God and saying, if I am going to have to go through this, please use this journey for His Glory. I told Him I could not do all of this alone and that I was counting on Him for every part of this journey, and boy did He show up! He arranged the most amazing medical team, made sure appointments were arranged at just the right time, provided me with a fantastic support system, and so many other things along the way! (I have them all documented, but not enough room here to share them all). I had a double mastectomy in January of 2021 and followed with reconstruction in April 2021.
Throughout this past year, I had terrific support from my family, place of employment, running prayer sisters, friends and church family. But when I was introduced to Project31, it was a game-changer. There were so many resources from podcasts to Zoom education meetings, to handles with care, a visit from one the most precious survivors that loved on you, answered questions, but also did not sugarcoat anything (and boy, am I glad she did not) I just felt like I had a group of ladies that understood what I was going through and were so willing to answer any questions or confirm thoughts and feelings all while pointing me back to JESUS!!!!!!!!!!
I absolutely can not say how much this ministry has touched my life and continues to daily. I give monthly and would encourage others to do the same. I am asking all of those who prayed and supported (continue to pray and support) me through this journey, join me in helping others diagnosed with breast cancer to have the resources they need to fight this battle physically, emotionally, and more than anything spiritually.
I can not wait to see all God does through you and Project31!