"My name is Tishawne Ward. On July 1st, 2020 I was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer along with cancerous lymph nodes in my armpit. This devastating news changed me forever."
I was newly married—not even a year—my career was taking off, the kids were getting older so all was well, or so I thought. After my diagnosis, I felt every emotion imaginable, my mind was going non-stop... Why me? Can I beat this? What about all the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation? What about my children, my husband, my family and friends? Just how will all this affect me individually as well as my loved ones?
Prayer definitely got me through, and my support system—my husband, children, family and friends were truly there for me. I was going through chemo treatment, and then was laid off from work, which added to my stress level, because now what? I had no insurance and still needed 6 weeks of radiation. In the meantime bills were adding up.
My nurse case manager, Kim, who was just awesome every step of the way, told me about Dance for the Cure and said she would be giving them my contact information as they might be able to help me. I received a call from DFC co-founder, Kathleen Cirioli, a few days later and we shared our personal cancer journeys with each other.
"Kathleen's story inspired me and made me believe even more that I could beat this."
Kathleen explained how Dance for the Cure was founded and what they do to assist local women battling this terrible disease. We talked like we knew each other—she was caring and understanding. At the end of our conversation she asked me for my mailing address, saying that DFC would be sending a donation to help financially during this time. I received a letter with a check that blew me away; I just cried and thanked God.
I know that Dance for the Cure was God sent. This is an awesome organization, from Kathleen to every single person who volunteers, and I'm so happy to be a volunteer now as well. I can’t thank DFC enough for what they did for me and I am so happy to be part of this amazing way of giving back. Thank you so much Dance for the Cure!
Tishawne Ward is 450 days and counting Cancer Free...
Are you or someone you know struggling due to a breast cancer diagnosis?
We would like to help. Please visit https://www.danceforthecure.org/get-help
