When Is Cancer A Reason For A Party?

When Dr. Schuh, the surgeon at St Louis Cancer and Breast Institute called to let me know that the biopsy showed that I had Breast Cancer, I asked, “Is it terminal?”  She was taken back for a minute before she said, “No, we’re going to fix this.”  Was it really such an odd question?  Friday, I attended the funeral of Lynne Levin.  She died from Breast Cancer.  They own Pumpernickel’s Deli and every Thursday when I met my mother and sisters there for breakfast, Harlan, her husband, would update us on her progress.  We didn't really know her but we got to know, like, and respect her as each week we watched the transformation of their restaurant as she added her exquisite taste in decorating, added her family recipes to the menu, and heard the love in the voices when her sons and husband talked about her.

I'm now fighting the battle that Lynne Levin fought.  I hope I can do it with the courage that she showed.  I've had my first Chemo treatment and one of the devastating results will be the loss of my hair which will happen about June 4th.  Yes, they know the date it will happen.  It was suggested that I shave my head to make the hair loss less traumatic.    Instead of hiding under the covers like I feel like doing, I was energized when ESPW-Encouraging, Supporting and Promoting Women offered to sponsor a fun fund raiser at the Center for Spiritual Living.  Since I'm the author of "Unforgettable Parties...Without Breaking the Bank" having a party felt right.  There will be raffle items and door prizes and the proceeds will help with the mounting medical bills.  During the event, Cynde Meyer, editor of Spirit Seeker Magazine will lead a ceremony where my head will be shaved.  I want to be surrounded by friends, supporters, and family to make this impossible situation easier.  My goal is to be a role model for my three daughters and to help others dealing with losing their sense of self due to cancer and the side effects of Chemo. We can be embarrassed and sad or we can throw a party.  It’s all a choice. 

The event is Thursday, May 30, 2013 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the Center for Spiritual Living 12875 Fee Fee Rd, St. Louis, MO 63146.  The event is open to the public and all support and prayers are appreciated.  Please RSVP at http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5888381307/efbevent