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My name is Barbara R. I have been working for Fred Meyer for 21 years. And I am a breast cancer survivor.
I live in Portland, and I’m originally from there, too. I have five sisters (I’m the youngest) and three daughters. I started working for Fred Meyer in the clothing department and today I am still with Fred Meyer as a lift truck operator in the Clackamas Warehouse, and working as hard as I ever have. Of course, sometimes I get very tired, but all in all, I feel very fortunate and grateful for everything I have.
Early detection can help protect your future!
When I was 38 years old, I felt a large lump in my left breast, and I was later diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time I was diagnosed, I didn’t want to put anything on anybody by telling them. I never really showed emotion in front of my family—but when my three small children went to sleep, I would cry. There was no history in my family and I didn’t know anybody with breast cancer at the time. Of course, at first there was denial. Somebody must have made a mistake, because I didn’t feel sick physically. But then, thinking back on that time, I just accepted it and tried to go on with my life. I believe that if you fret about things, it won’t change. Your outlook and perspective and attitude have a lot to do with your cure, so I just tried to stay positive and deal with it—I had chemo and I went to work. The only time I took off was for the surgery—my mastectomy.
Because of my experience, my daughters are now getting screened more often—they completely understand how important it is to do self-exams and have annual checkups. I felt really guilty about relaying the risk for breast cancer to them, but it wasn’t really my choice to get the disease and of course they understand that. Screening is important for everybody, but especially important for those with a history of breast cancer in the family. Even though none of my others sisters have been diagnosed, everybody keeps up with their screenings.
I have had a wonderful life. And when I retire, I would like to volunteer to help the cause.
The most positive outcome for me is to be right here at this point in my life, where I’m having an opportunity like this to share my story and encourage somebody else. There are so many cases of breast cancer now and women out there who need some support. Looking back on it, it was really challenging—but I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends, church, and coworkers. I’m really thankful. There are so many challenges, but you do persevere. In the end, I think you have to be a little feisty, you have to have faith, you have to find your own inner strength, and you have to believe.
- Barbara
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