March 24, 2011

Last October I was approached by a friend of my sisters who works for an area hospital. She told me that the hospital was preparing for a new marketing campaign and asked if she could share my story with the marketing department responsible for picking the patients they would feature in their ad campain. Since the first few moments after diagnosis I have wanted nothing more than this tragic episode of life to bring God glory so I gave her my permission. To make a long story short there were lots of different interviews and selection committees but in the end my story was chosen to represent the Women's Center (where my Breast Surgeon practices). The first week of January I went to an area studio, got a professional makeover (so much fun) and then had a photo shoot and video interview (nerve-wrecking!). In the last couple of weeks the ads have begun to air. TV commercials, Radio spots, Web-commercials on You-Tube, and even a huge Billboard in the middle of town. And while I can't stand to see myself on TV or hear my voice on the radio I am brought to tears because I'm reminded of just how much God has done for me, what he saved me from! I remember how scared I was at first and how His love took that fear from me and gave me peace. I remember how weak I was on Chemo and how he was my strength to continue on as a mom when it exhausted me to just get out of bed. I remember the pit that formed in my stomach with the first few handfuls of hair that began to fall out and then later looking at my bald head and realizing my beauty is in Him and not in my hair. I remember having to summon the courage to look at myself after having my breast removed only to find that God's grace so fully abounded that their was no fear or revulsion looking at my empty and scarred chest. So, when I see my billboard I see God's faithfulness, His love, and His blessings. I'm so blessed to be alive today. To get to sing silly songs with my kiddos or go on a date with my hubby. Life is precious and I've been given more time here. My prayer remains the same as it did on the day of diagnosis...Lord may my life bring you glory in whatever comes my way!