"Teddy GRAHAM"
16" x 20"
Acrylic on canvas
Andrea's Story:
I found a lump in my left breast while in the shower doing my monthly self-examination. I didn’t stress because 17 months earlier I found a similar lump in my right breast. It was non-cancerous, and I had the lump removed. I made an appointment to have my second lump checked and removed, same ole routine, so I thought. I received a call on Monday August 17, 2009 informing me that I had breast cancer. WOW!!!! I had just moved to the area, had just signed into my unit, the 260th Quartermaster Battalion 3rd Sustainment Brigade based at Hunter Army Airfield. Simply put, I was scared. How do I tell my Commander? Better yet, how do I lead Soldiers? I didn’t want to look sick; and I definitely didn’t want to lose my hair.
On Tuesday, 8 September 2009, I had a lumpectomy and I found out that I had Stage One breast cancer. Moreover, I found out that my lump was 1.2 centimeters. My journey has been a roller coaster, but I never feared death. I have undergone chemotherapy, radiation, and currently Herceptin treatments as well as a 5-year daily dose of Tamoxifen.
I have learned that having hair doesn’t define my beauty; beauty comes from within. Life is a test to see if you can recover from bumps and bruises. Life for me has been a test to pick up the pieces and move forward. I have realized that I am not the same Soldier I used to be; however I am still a Soldier. I have a lot to celebrate; I have been cancer free for 3 months, and for that, I celebrate Life.
Sold
Bidder 1 on #20 October 25: $50
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