Megan (March)

Facing Breast Cancer: A Journey of Faith, Fear, and Community

The Initial Diagnosis and Overwhelming Fear

I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2013 at the age of 45. It was Stage 2. The diagnosis shattered the plans I had for my family and my career. In those early moments, fearful thoughts suffocated me. I struggled to breathe as my doctor spoke, unable to process his words as the room seemed to spin. That intense fear lingered for five days.

Finding Peace Through Faith

Then, everything changed. I turned to God and asked for my fear to be taken away. In that very instant, I felt a profound sense of peace.  This peace has been with me now for 12 years.

A Second Diagnosis and Renewed Resolve

When I was diagnosed a second time in December 2021, the cancer had metastasized throughout my torso, advancing to Stage 4. This time, I faced the situation with a fighting spirit, buoyed by the strength I felt God gave me.

Holistic Healing and Hope

Navigating the difficult days required prayer—often on bended knees—asking for courage and for an optimistic outlook of my future. Alongside my faith, I began researching holistic approaches to fighting cancer that could complement modern Western medicine. This combination brought me hope and a renewed sense of direction knowing that I can never outrun my blessings.

Community Support and the Power of Kindness

Unexpected acts of kindness from others have left a deep and lasting impact. I experienced firsthand the power of prayer and the overwhelming sense of peace it brought me. Living in a small town, I was embraced by my community, my family and my friends through meals, flowers, cards, gifts and visits. The love and support I received was extraordinary.

Life After Stage 4 Diagnosis

Since being diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, my perspective on life has shifted dramatically. I now recognize the fragility of life and believe that suffering transforms once you find purpose in it. I am now retired, a Grammy, newly married, and I see life through a different lens. The little things have taken on new meaning. I have learned to let go, savor life, and cherish those who love me.

What Survivorship Means

For me, survivorship begins at the moment of diagnosis and continues for the rest of life. It is the persistent will to endure the long-term and late effects of cancer and its treatments: physical pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, and diminished quality of life.

Survivorship also means staying self-aware and deeply attentive to my body’s signals. It requires a commitment to healthy habits—walking, swimming, golfing, bike riding, and enjoying a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein. Prioritizing good sleep has also become a key part of my healing journey.

If someone has just been diagnosed, I would tell them this:

Breathe in faith, blow out fear.

Cherish every single day – it’s a gift, not a guarantee.

Be kind to your body – move it, nourish it, stop criticizing it.

Go outside.

Look at the sky.

Feel the sun.

Spend less time chasing “stuff” – and more time making memories.

Don’t skip moments with people you love

Laugh more.

Tell someone you love them.

Complain less.

Be present.

Show up – really show up.

Say “no” to what drains you.

Make changes when you need to.

Live your life well.

Your cancer diagnosis is not a surprise to God.

God is in control.

God says, “No matter what difficulties and suffering befall you, no matter what grievances or weakness you are confronted with, if you come before God and pray – His wors will give you comfort and resolve your difficulties and all your different problems.  Do not fear, the Almighty God will surely be with you.  He stands behind you and He is your shield.

It is important that everyone knows that I’m so much more than the bad things that happen to me.