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Claudette’s Story (Breast Cancer)

Claudette's Story (Breast Cancer) When our daughter, Lori, at the age of 34 was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, we were so frightened. Little did we know that our world would change just as hers had. Being that Lori lived in Alabama, I wanted to be able to help care for her much as possible. There were many trips for surgery, chemo, radiation, and stem cell rescue (which was the scariest of all). She is now an 11 year survivor.

The cancer patient suffers the physical and emotional pain, however, the caregiver of a loved one shares in the mental anguish. We go through all the stages; fear, prayer, sometimes bargaining with God, and then pleading for his help. I know this as I am a lung cancer survivor.

My beloved sister, Dorothy, at the age of 50 lost her battle with breast cancer. We spent 27 days at the hospital by her side, 24 hours daily. We were so afraid she’d be alone when she passed. We wanted to make sure that would not happen. After 27 days, we were told we had two choices; put her in a nursing home or bring her home. We chose to bring her home and care for her during her last days. The pain in our hearts was overwhelming.We wanted her to pass peacefully as we knew her body was destroyed by cancer, yet we didn’t want her to leave us. When she did pass, we were all so grateful that she would no longer have to suffer.

The caregiver of one that has passed away must find ways to heal. The caregiver for those who are now our survivors are very brave and strong and can now start to heal from all the mental agony they have been through with these very special people.

Claudette G
California
Submitted 8-12-2012

The informational content of this article is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

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One comment

  1. Lori Grubb

    You Rock Mom!!!!! My mother, Claudette Gartner, was an awesome care giver and a very special lung cancer survivor. We are truly blessed by God’s healing power in our lives and His peace beyond all understanding that He alone gives us to make it through the pain of losing our loved ones to such a horrible disease. Love Ya Mama.

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