On October 10, 2018, the 10th Annual Drink Pink for a cause will take place at Bernard’s in Ridgefield. This event supports Ann’s Place while putting a spotlight on local breast cancer patients and survivors.
The photo you see here is one of Kristen Jensen’s “Courageous Faces”. This and many other photos of cancer survivors and those in the midst of treatment will blanket the walls of Bernard’s on October 10 telling a story of life, struggle, friendship, and hope.
Here, we couple the many Courageous Faces with their unique stories. We thank each and every one of these ladies for sharing their difficult journey with us.
Courageous Face: Michelle Thompson
Tell me about when you first learned you had breast cancer
I found a large lump in my breast in May of 2013. I just knew it was cancer even before I went to the doctor and by the end of the month, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer as it had spread to my sternum. It took a couple of weeks before it all sank in. Unlike stages 1 to 3, I will never be in remission, never finish with treatment, never ring the chemo bell and it will eventually kill me. However, I value life and I am fighting to stay alive as long as I can. I am not sad, this is just the facts, my “new normal”.
Who did you turn to for support and how was that person or organization supportive?
My faith, family and friends and fellow Stage 4 “Met” sisters vis online support groups. My faith gives me hope for a much better future and my congregation couldn’t be more supportive and accommodating. My family and friends have accepted my “new normal” of limited energy and have provided much assistance when needed. My fellow “Met” sisters provide me insight on what to expect from the different treatments and totally understand what it is like to live with cancer that can’t be cured.
Whether it was a kind word, a scripture shared, a card, a meal or just a hug, it was all supportive and helped me get a handle mentally, emotionally and physically on having metastatic breast cancer.
Do you look at life differently pre/post breast cancer diagnosis?
Yes and no. No, because my faith has always given me the hope of a life without sickness due to God's Kingdom. Yes, because of the sickness and treatment - I have limited energy and need to accept that fact, as frustrating as it is, and adapt to it.
What message do you have for others who have been diagnosed with breast cancer?
Educate yourself. Grieve the loss of your health and then accept your new situation and find a support group that works for you.
Drink Pink for a cause will take place at Bernard's in Ridgefield (20 West Lane) on Wednesday, October 10 from 6 to 8pm. There is no need to RSVP! Just show up ($20 at the door benefits Ann's Place) for an unforgettable night. There will be nibbles (courtesy of 109 Cheese), pink cocktails, live music, and fantastic raffle prizes!