Sisterhood of Survivorship
Sharing, Caring, Surviving
Annie L's Story
Year Diagnosed: 2002
Type of Cancer: ovarian
In 2002 I had some abdominal pain while riding my exercise bike. When it got worse later that day, I called my HMO and they said to call 911. A scan showed a growth in one ovary and I was admitted to the hospital, where I had surgery for stage 1C ovarian cancer. After chemo I returned to work and was cancer-free for 4 years. I thought I was cured, but it came back in 2006. With the exception of 6 months, I've been in treatment since then. Now, in July 2009, there are no more new chemo drugs to try. I am receiving excellent in-home hospice care. Although at times I'm quite uncomfortable, I'm making the most of the time I have left by spending time with my family and friends and doing Buddhist practice. Cancer has taught me that the most important things in life are close relationships, doing some sort (any sort at all) of spiritual practice, and helping others whenever I can.