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My name is Sharon Templeman. I have worked for Kroger for 33 years. And I am an 8-year breast cancer survivor.
I was born and raised right here in Newport, AR and it’s where I’m happy to have worked and raised my family. I am married to a terrific man and have two boys who are grown now. I also have two grandchildren—Sophia will be four in September and Finley turns three in September. Those kids are the light of my life!
I am living proof that early detection saves lives. Please have your mammograms regularly!
In 2001, I was diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time. Six years later, I was re-diagnosed when a routine mammogram found a lump in my other breast—it was a completely different cancer. Both times I had lumpectomy, radiation, and chemo.
My husband was very supportive. He was there for me every step of the way and went to all the doctor’s appointments — even the chemo. He’s wonderful. My friends and my manager at the time were right there with us the day we got the news the first time, and one girl here at Kroger even dyed her hair pink. I had a lot of support from friends and my family. My church gave me a surprise hat party, for when I lost my hair. I got 37 different hats and they also gave me a basket with a card numbered for each day from each member of the church. For me, it was my faith that made a huge difference. I never said why me—I just took it and went with it.
I actually learned to fly fish through cancer. I did an event called Casting for Recovery. And now I am going to volunteer to help out—it’s a wonderful program. In 2007, right after my second battle, I participated in the Look Good, Feel Better program. The volunteers helped us with makeup and wigs if we wanted. It was a great experience. There are so many programs out there to help boost morale and give you back your confidence.
I have met so many great people through this disease—and I’ve also lost some friends that I’ve met along the way. Cancer is an ugly, ugly thing—but my life has been blessed because of it. Every day, you have to make the most of it. I don’t think I was a callous person before, but when I heard that somebody had cancer I felt for them, I didn’t truly feel for them. Now I feel for them, I really truly know and I try to do what I can.
My words of advice— thank the Lord each day for your blessings and live each day to its fullest!
- Sharon Kaye
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