Sisterhood of Survivorship
Sharing, Caring, Surviving
Karen B's Story
Year Diagnosed: 2003
Type of Cancer: ovarian
I found my ovarian tumor while doing yoga. Went to my internist who said I tore a muscle—without any testing. Didn't sound right, so went to gastro doctor. His test showed my ovarian tumor. It's important for women to trust their bodies. I did the standard chemo treatment and then went into a clinical study for another six months. When finished, went through depression for a year. I was numb. I started painting, which for me is a very body-centered and spontaneous activity. I created 18 paintings that chronicle my physical, emotional, and spiritual recovery from my cancer. I've become a full-time artist and created a website to share my art with other women diagnosed with cancer (www.healingthroughart.org). I use complementary medicine: juicing, chinese medicine, vitamin therapy; and thank G-d am still in remission with no recurrence since my diagnosis.