Now that I've touched upon the diagnosis and treatments of breast cancer, I feel like it's time to take a break and celebrate those who have overcome their bout with this disease. Today, we'll take a brief look at some of the more famous breast cancer survivors.
Journalist, writer and producer, LINDA ELLERBEE, not only overcame breast cancer, but continues to speak about her experience and is a strong supporter of the National Breast Cancer Coalition.
Former First Lady, NANCY REAGAN, did much good for the breast cancer cause by allowing her own story to be told.
Olympic gold medalist and commentator, PEGGY FLEMING, continues to enthrall audiences with her skating performances.
Chef, author and TV personality, JULIA CHILD, is as irreverent and irrepressible as ever.
TV anchor, BETTY ROLLIN, was one of the first to write a book about her experience with breast cancer. Even though First, You Cry, is dated, several of her sagas which show her great sense of humor.
DR. ERNESTINE BRADLEY, wife of Bill Bradley, former basketball great and senator, is a survivor.
Actress ANN JILLIAN has written a book about her cancer journey.
GAIL COORS, of the Coors Brewing Company, is a survivor.
Former First Lady BETTY FORD speaks out about breast cancer, as a proud survivor.
Actresses JULIE HARRIS and PHYLLIS NEWMAN are active.
RUTH HANDLER,co-founder of Mattel Toys, is a working survivor.
Pop singer and actress OLIVIA-NEWTON JOHN is a loving mother and enjoying life to the fullest.
NANCY BRINKER, founder of the Komen Foundation, the nation's largest private non-profit breast cancer organization, is herself a survivor. She began the foundation in honor of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died from breast cancer.
Breast cancer can strike the young, old, married, single, women, some men, rich, poor, educated, illiterate. How you react to your diagnosis and treatment is up to you. Try to have a good support team in place - family, friends and loved ones. Find doctors you like and trust. Be part of the team. Don't just be a patient - give your input, question what you don't understand, keep your sense of humor intact. Let your life be enriched by the experience. Grow and live life to the fullest. Do what you can to help others who receive a diagnosis of breast cancer. All your efforts will be greatly appreciated - whether you can donate a few dollars, share your experience with others openly, volunteer at fund-raising events, community education programs, become a breast cancer advocate - celebrate your life and let others be inspired by your trip down the cancer road. You don't have to be a celebrity to be a hero. Your survivorship is inspiration enough. As the quote goes: "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade".
By Linda Bily
