June 1, 2007 was life changing!

On June 1, 2007 at 1:30 p.m. I had an appointment with the surgeon as a follow-up to my May 16th surgery (right lobe of my thyroid was removed). I figured the doctor would look at the incision and that would be it. Instead, the doctor walked in and asked if anyone had told me the results of the biopsy. I told him no. He apologized and proceeded to share with me that I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer by the doctors at the Mayo Clinic and they found three cancerous nodules. He also said that a second opinion was obtained just to make sure and that confirmed the diagnosis. I sat there in disbelief. I thought I came in for a follow-up visit. I had no idea I was going to be told I had CANCER. The doctor recommended that I set up an appointment to have the other lobe removed because three nodules were found in the right lobe. I made that appointment and left the office.

Four hours after my diagnosis, I was on the podium at the Relay for Life Annual Survivor’s Banquet continuing my pink scarf campaign. I shared with them that I had a speech prepared but I decided to change it somewhat. I said “I joined your family today. I was diagnosed with cancer four hours ago.” The room was so quiet you could have heard a pin drop. I proceeded with my pink scarf story and told them that anyone who had not received a pink scarf needed to stop by before they left for the evening and pick one up. I left the podium with a heart-felt standing ovation. Shortly thereafter, the survivor’s committee presented me with one of my own pink scarves. I knew I was passionate about this project when I started. However, I never imagined that I would become a member of the pink scarf family but I can say I’m a much better person because of it. I know from personal experience what it means to receive such a special gift.