Breast Cancer Survivor Story

God Does Not Give You More Than You Can Handle

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2006. Before the diagnosis, I was already an insulin-dependent diabetic, so that was plenty to deal with in my mind. But, I guess God knew that with His help I could handle it and so I was not scared when the doctor told me that I had breast cancer.

My treatment for breast cancer consisted of one year of chemotherapy every two weeks in Birmingham and eight weeks of radiation in Decatur. Throughout my treatment, my focus was that God would not give a person more than they could handle. This proved to be so true and I learned that I was a lot stronger than I ever realized. Prayers from myself, my family and friends, plus wonderful church support were the things that took me through that treatment process and helped me to be strong in the face of what could have been a very scary time for me. One of my prayers was that I did not want to look like someone that was sick. I feel that in my heart, I did indeed look very healthy during my cancer battle, except having a bald head of course.

It seemed that good news and bad news was on the horizon for me after completing the year of treatment. I learned I was cancer free and three days later, my husband of five years told me that he did not love me and wanted a divorce. This was a devastating blow to me. But, God once again came to my rescue and helped me during this emotional disappointment. Friends and family reminded me that everything works out for the glory of God. If it means that I deal with hardships to bring one person to the Lord, then it is all worth it.

Good things did come out of my battle with cancer. My mother’s life changed. My mom lives a wonderful spiritual life now. I would say she had a lukewarm relationship with the Lord before, but now that has changed to a spirit filled life. That was a big positive that I saw from before and after my battle with cancer. We don’t realize what good will occur at the time of a cancer diagnosis, but there is always something good that comes out of it.

I have been cancer free now for two years and feel much stronger. I do have some leg pain, but that is helped with anti-inflammatory medicines. I do not think about the cancer and I enjoy each day that I have on this Earth. I think positive thoughts as life is too short to worry about the what if’s.

All of my friends have a Christ centered life and I surround myself with friends who love God. This helps me stay on the path towards heaven. My recommendation to others diagnosed with cancer is to pray and stay positive. Some days will not be easy, however, know that God is always with you 24/7. Remember there is someone who is worse off than you and be thankful for what you have. Never forget that God does not give you more than you can handle.