Cynthia Day

As many of you know, I’ve heard the words “you have breast cancer” three times. I have been very blessed over the years, especially since being diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer in 2005. After 2 ½ years of various chemotherapy drugs, I’ve had no evidence of disease since 2007 until last year. I was diagnosed with a different type of early stage breast cancer found during a mammogram. I had a bilateral mastectomy in February of this year and am doing well.

There are several reasons I am participating in the 100-mile challenge and supporting the Navigation to Survivorship Network (N2SN) during the month of October. (1) It gets me out there moving to try and reach a goal of 100 miles! (2) N2SN supports Casting for Recovery Indiana by providing grant monies to assist us in offering fly fishing/wellness retreats for breast cancer survivors. (3) Their focus is on funding cancer treatment facilities and other cancer-related organizations that assist cancer patients during and after their diagnosis. (4) October is breast cancer awareness month so I’m walking in honor of those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and in memory of all cancer patients we have sadly lost.

In 2002 when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, patient/nurse navigators were not available to assist me with all of the questions I had as many hospitals didn’t have them on their staff. There were very few support groups for cancer patients, especially for those with stave IV metastatic disease. Physical, massage, art, etc., therapies were not readily available and they have now been proven very beneficial to those diagnosed with cancer.

When diagnosed in 2020, I was very much aware of the changes that have occurred over the years in treating cancer patients. There is more focus on treating their emotional, physical, mental, social, financial, etc., needs. I had a patient navigator this time around, and she was there for me anytime I needed and when I least expected it. I’ve taken advantage of physical and massage therapies and yoga to improve my range of motion. I also participate in a support group for stage IV metastatic cancer patients. I am so thankful and grateful for all that has been provided to me to help get me back to what I enjoy doing most...living and creating memories with my family and friends!

So, please join me and the Casting for Recovery Indiana team and/or consider making a donation to N2SN. They are truly making a difference to Hoosiers who have heard “you have cancer”.