Page 93 - Senior Link Magazine Fall 2024 - Online Magazine

naVY
coLD war

Since there were so few Many of the lessons I learned in the military were
women in the military, useful in my battle with cancer. That journey
they said providing included: painful surgeries and treatments, long
VA services to women term side effects, more pain, disfigurement, fear,
vets wasn't worth their scars, confusion, hair loss, lots of uncertainty, a new
time. identity as “the one with cancer,” and inappropriate
words and behaviors from friends and family. My life
When I moved to suddenly turned upside down. I was grateful that, in
Lubbock, I went the Navy, I had learned about coping with adversity.
to the VA clinic on
Ave. Q, found they I am cancer free for now, and the VA gives me
had some medical outstanding care. I'm glad when I can help a female
services for females, veteran navigate what services are available. I'm
and the VA enrolled honored whenever I have the opportunity to offer
me. The Nurse Practitioner and I were working on words of encouragement or be present with a veteran
completing checkup items. One of those items was a or cancer warrior. As a Navy veteran and now a
mammogram. cancer survivor, I have learned to appreciate each day
as a gift.
Four words changed everything: You have breast
cancer.

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WE HONOR ALL

OUR VETERANS

Lubbock Senior Link 93