Comments on: Renee's Story: Employee and Young Adult Cancer Survivor http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/ Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:46:19 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 By: LIVESTRONG Blog » Blog Archive » Up Her Sleeve http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-49378 LIVESTRONG Blog » Blog Archive » Up Her Sleeve Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:13:52 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-49378 [...] is a video of long-time LIVESTRONG staffer and two year cancer survivor Renee Nicholas talking about how she deals with lymphedema. Along with helpful tips, Renee offers her story and a [...] [...] is a video of long-time LIVESTRONG staffer and two year cancer survivor Renee Nicholas talking about how she deals with lymphedema. Along with helpful tips, Renee offers her story and a [...]

]]> By: ivan http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4015 ivan Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:01:44 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4015 Same exact situation happened to my wife, she was 30. Thank God for the second Dr. although it was 3 months later and bye her own intuition and persistence. That was just the beginning of a long, bumpy road but it has made us realize what is really important and that a lot of the things we really cared about were trivial at best. It is tough to say because of the seriousness of the illness but cancer has made me a better person. God Bless Same exact situation happened to my wife, she was 30. Thank God for the second Dr. although it was 3 months later and bye her own intuition and persistence. That was just the beginning of a long, bumpy road but it has made us realize what is really important and that a lot of the things we really cared about were trivial at best. It is tough to say because of the seriousness of the illness but cancer has made me a better person.

God Bless

]]> By: Charlie Lustman http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4014 Charlie Lustman Sat, 05 Sep 2009 09:13:42 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4014 Wow Renee! Amazing! I didn't know the woman who called me last week is a cancer survivor and a beautiful human being who has dedicated her life to helping others. Thank you for sharing yourself in your blog. Kind regards, Charlie in Santa Monica Wow Renee! Amazing! I didn’t know the woman who called me
last week is a cancer survivor and a beautiful human being who has dedicated her life to helping others.

Thank you for sharing yourself in your blog.

Kind regards,

Charlie in Santa Monica

]]> By: Adam Butler http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4013 Adam Butler Mon, 13 Apr 2009 21:56:59 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4013 Renee, I love what you say about listening to your intuition. You knew it. This is an important message to share. My father ignored his intuition and is now in a battle royal with the cancer. Thank for sharing as this is a message for the young and the older. By the way, you are equally gorgeous with all three of the haircuts above. Partial to the mohawk. Adam Renee,

I love what you say about listening to your intuition. You knew it. This is an important message to share. My father ignored his intuition and is now in a battle royal with the cancer. Thank for sharing as this is a message for the young and the older.

By the way, you are equally gorgeous with all three of the haircuts above. Partial to the mohawk.

Adam

]]> By: Philippe Chantreau http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4012 Philippe Chantreau Mon, 13 Apr 2009 17:13:17 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4012 The inspirational stories, like Renee's, on this site are an endless source of joy. You are just hot, girl. The inspirational stories, like Renee’s, on this site are an endless source of joy. You are just hot, girl.

]]> By: Andy White http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4011 Andy White Sat, 11 Apr 2009 22:30:11 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4011 Hi Renee: Our buddy Rita Radostitz posted your blog on her Facebook page and it came to me that way. Wow! Love your smiles in those photos, you go! Hope things are going well - All the best, Andy Hi Renee:
Our buddy Rita Radostitz posted your blog on her Facebook page and it came to me that way. Wow! Love your smiles in those photos, you go! Hope things are going well – All the best, Andy

]]> By: Jen @ amazingtrips http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4010 Jen @ amazingtrips Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:17:57 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4010 Renee, you did an awesome job with your first blog post. And - you did an awesome job in listening to your body and following through with a second opinion. Thanks for sharing your story with the world. You're beautiful!! :) Renee, you did an awesome job with your first blog post. And – you did an awesome job in listening to your body and following through with a second opinion. Thanks for sharing your story with the world.

You’re beautiful!! :)

]]> By: Megan http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4009 Megan Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:09:21 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4009 Renee, I am 24 and was diagnosed with breast cancer just a week and a half ago--March 31, 2009. The first doctor I went to had the look of worry you describe and she immediately ordered a mammogram and ultrasound. It was one very long week for me from the day I found the lump to the day of diagnosis. I can't even imagine how long your month of waiting must have seemed. I envy you that the lump is gone. My oncologist has opted to begin chemo first, and surgery will come later. So for now, the lump remains...getting smaller all the time, but not gone yet. -Megan Renee,

I am 24 and was diagnosed with breast cancer just a week and a half ago–March 31, 2009. The first doctor I went to had the look of worry you describe and she immediately ordered a mammogram and ultrasound. It was one very long week for me from the day I found the lump to the day of diagnosis. I can’t even imagine how long your month of waiting must have seemed. I envy you that the lump is gone. My oncologist has opted to begin chemo first, and surgery will come later. So for now, the lump remains…getting smaller all the time, but not gone yet.

-Megan

]]> By: Melissa Sparvero Segerlind http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4008 Melissa Sparvero Segerlind Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:30:26 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4008 Renee, I love the pictures - you have a beautiful head! Your blog was very moving and I think writing (along with wig choosing) is a wonderful talent you have been given. Thank you for sharing your story with everyone. You are truly an inspiration. I think of you everyday when I wear my race for the cure athletic shoes or my DLL breat cancer rain boots. You are constantly in my prayers. You are strong, beautiful and amazing. Love, Melissa Renee,
I love the pictures – you have a beautiful head! Your blog was very moving and I think writing (along with wig choosing) is a wonderful talent you have been given. Thank you for sharing your story with everyone. You are truly an inspiration. I think of you everyday when I wear my race for the cure athletic shoes or my DLL breat cancer rain boots. You are constantly in my prayers. You are strong, beautiful and amazing.
Love,
Melissa

]]> By: Liz http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4007 Liz Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:10:00 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4007 Renee, I'm a friend of a friend (Emily S.). I'm glad you're doing better - great entry! I had a similar (but better!) experience with my doctor - she said it could be hormonal, but also "You can go get a mammogram now, or wait a month & see if it goes away." So at least I had the option from the get-go! I did wind up waiting the month, but I already had the referral form from her. But listen to the message, people! Feel your girls! Get to know them! And trust yourself! Renee,

I’m a friend of a friend (Emily S.). I’m glad you’re doing better – great entry! I had a similar (but better!) experience with my doctor – she said it could be hormonal, but also “You can go get a mammogram now, or wait a month & see if it goes away.” So at least I had the option from the get-go! I did wind up waiting the month, but I already had the referral form from her. But listen to the message, people! Feel your girls! Get to know them! And trust yourself!

]]> By: Laura http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4006 Laura Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:33:24 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4006 You are so beautiful! wow! You are so beautiful! wow!

]]> By: Maria http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4005 Maria Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:13:19 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4005 Renee, Kyle and I had no idea - guess it's been a while. Your message to trust your instincts and demand more from our doctors is incredibly powerful. Thanks for sharing it with the world. Sincerely, Maria Bergh Renee,

Kyle and I had no idea – guess it’s been a while. Your message to trust your instincts and demand more from our doctors is incredibly powerful. Thanks for sharing it with the world.

Sincerely,

Maria Bergh

]]> By: Lindsay http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4004 Lindsay Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:15:45 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4004 Renee, Love your post! So happy to see you doing well and living strong! Sincerely, Lindsay Beck (Fertile Hope) Renee,

Love your post! So happy to see you doing well and living strong!

Sincerely,
Lindsay Beck (Fertile Hope)

]]> By: Kerry http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4003 Kerry Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:09:45 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4003 Renee, this is an incredibly important message. Thank you for making this post and inspiring others to take control of their situation. It really does make a difference. Wishing you the very best. Renee, this is an incredibly important message. Thank you for making this post and inspiring others to take control of their situation. It really does make a difference. Wishing you the very best.

]]> By: Jacqui http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4002 Jacqui Thu, 09 Apr 2009 05:52:20 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4002 Great story Renee - I?m also a young adult cancer survivor. I?m 35 now, and cancer free!! I was also 32 when I went to a doctor that told me I was being a drama queen. Like you I was busy doing my running and yoga and trying to forget about the lump in my shoulder. After repeated visits to my Doctor I insisted on an Xray, which revealed a massive tumor. Turns out the lump was a chondrosarcoma (cancer of the bone cartlidge)! Like you, I got a second opionon and now have an excellent healthcare team that I know and trust. As you say, TRUST YOUR INTUITION, and from my experience, NEVER work with a Doctor who gives you the 3rd degree or tells you that you are over reacting! I love the wig - All the best with your recovery and LIVESTRONG!! Great story Renee – I?m also a young adult cancer survivor. I?m 35 now, and cancer free!! I was also 32 when I went to a doctor that told me I was being a drama queen. Like you I was busy doing my running and yoga and trying to forget about the lump in my shoulder.

After repeated visits to my Doctor I insisted on an Xray, which revealed a massive tumor. Turns out the lump was a chondrosarcoma (cancer of the bone cartlidge)!

Like you, I got a second opionon and now have an excellent healthcare team that I know and trust. As you say, TRUST YOUR INTUITION, and from my experience, NEVER work with a Doctor who gives you the 3rd degree or tells you that you are over reacting!

I love the wig – All the best with your recovery and LIVESTRONG!!

]]> By: Linda S. http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4001 Linda S. Thu, 09 Apr 2009 05:20:30 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4001 Thank you for sharing your story, Renee and so profoundly written. You've touched my heart before-last year, LIVESTRONG DAY, San Jose City Hall. Truly can't wait to see you again soon. Until then, I hope you continue to share your message-it takes courage, but you've proven you found it in you and the message is so important! Thank You Renee, hugs to you, LIVESTRONG always... Linda Santos Thank you for sharing your story, Renee and so profoundly written. You’ve touched my heart before-last year, LIVESTRONG DAY, San Jose City Hall.
Truly can’t wait to see you again soon. Until then, I hope you continue to share your message-it takes courage, but you’ve proven you found it in you and the message is so important!

Thank You Renee, hugs to you, LIVESTRONG always…
Linda Santos

]]> By: Phil http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-4000 Phil Thu, 09 Apr 2009 05:05:29 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-4000 Great post. As a survivor of young cancer (Diagnosed at 24, I'm now 47) you're an inspiration. Livestrong! Phil Great post. As a survivor of young cancer (Diagnosed at 24, I’m now 47) you’re an inspiration.

Livestrong!

Phil

]]> By: pdxknitterati http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3999 pdxknitterati Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:28:02 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3999 Renee, thank you for sharing your story. We should never stop asking questions about something this important! A second opinion is a very good thing. Renee, thank you for sharing your story. We should never stop asking questions about something this important! A second opinion is a very good thing.

]]> By: Jerry & Angie http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3998 Jerry & Angie Thu, 09 Apr 2009 03:53:33 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3998 You feel it You write it You Speak it You Show it for all to see You LiveStrong! You feel it
You write it
You Speak it
You Show it for all to see
You LiveStrong!

]]> By: Julie http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3997 Julie Thu, 09 Apr 2009 03:10:31 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3997 Hey Renee, Funny that story sounds so familiar to me too. I found a lump when I was 30 years old and the doctors put me off the same way. I finally pushed the point like you eventually and they discovered Hodgkins Lymphoma, that seemed like an innocent lump on the side of my breast (under pit). I am a grateful survivor now. Congrats on your attitude. Livestrong. Hey Renee,
Funny that story sounds so familiar to me too. I found a lump when I was 30 years old and the doctors put me off the same way. I finally pushed the point like you eventually and they discovered Hodgkins Lymphoma, that seemed like an innocent lump on the side of my breast (under pit). I am a grateful survivor now.

Congrats on your attitude.

Livestrong.

]]> By: Saver Queen http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3996 Saver Queen Thu, 09 Apr 2009 02:51:48 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3996 Thank you so much for sharing this important message. AND, thank you for sharing your awesome wig with us - I love the bright orange, it looks fabulous on you. Thank you so much for sharing this important message. AND, thank you for sharing your awesome wig with us – I love the bright orange, it looks fabulous on you.

]]> By: Jamie Nicholas http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3995 Jamie Nicholas Thu, 09 Apr 2009 01:32:26 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3995 Renee, I think I last actually saw you when you were a baby in a playpen, even though we are first cousins. I was 15, in Maine. I loved your dad. I love your mom. I loved Maine. I think of all of you guys often, and I believe your blog is very powerful. The best thing you can do for yourself is to listen to your own body. If your doctor won't listen, find another one. We all have to take control of our healthcare, no matter what age we are. I hope we can get together someday soon. Would love that! Renee,
I think I last actually saw you when you were a baby in a playpen, even though we are first cousins. I was 15, in Maine. I loved your dad. I love your mom. I loved Maine. I think of all of you guys often, and I believe your blog is very powerful. The best thing you can do for yourself is to listen to your own body. If your doctor won’t listen, find another one. We all have to take control of our healthcare, no matter what age we are.
I hope we can get together someday soon. Would love that!

]]> By: Kristen http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3994 Kristen Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:18:03 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3994 Good Luck, I survived the unsurvivable, if I can o it alone anyone who is in a surrounded by friends and family can. I wish you all the luck. With LOVE, (cause everyone needs it) Kristen Good Luck, I survived the unsurvivable, if I can o it alone anyone who is in a surrounded by friends and family can. I wish you all the luck.

With LOVE, (cause everyone needs it)
Kristen

]]> By: Jen http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3993 Jen Wed, 08 Apr 2009 23:30:33 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3993 Renee, Wonderfully written. Thank you for sharing your story. Keep smiling and LIVESTRONG! Renee,

Wonderfully written. Thank you for sharing your story. Keep smiling and LIVESTRONG!

]]> By: Sherrie http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3992 Sherrie Wed, 08 Apr 2009 23:00:14 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3992 Renee, Thank you for posting this. I can't believe I'm reading this post on this day. I am going through the same scare as I type this. I have had a few episodes of throbing left breast for about 2 months now and something just doesn't feel right. Went to have a mammogram yesterday. The technician told me (which is very unethical) that she found something and that I needed to be very persistant about it. The radiologist said it was most probably a hormonal cyst and pretty much ruled my mammogram as normal. I am 43 and lost an aunt less than one year ago to breast cancer. I insisted that my family doc. take this serious and I have an appointment Friday April 10 with a surgeon. I have questioned myself about being persistant and I don't want people to think I'm a drama queen, but I just don't like what ever it is in my breast, cyst, lump, or tissue mass, I want it out. Thanks again, I feel reasssured about being persistant. God Bless you and you look beautiful in all of the pictures, but especially the orange hair. LIVESTRONG!! Renee,

Thank you for posting this. I can’t believe I’m reading this post on this day. I am going through the same scare as I type this. I have had a few episodes of throbing left breast for about 2 months now and something just doesn’t feel right. Went to have a mammogram yesterday. The technician told me (which is very unethical) that she found something and that I needed to be very persistant about it. The radiologist said it was most probably a hormonal cyst and pretty much ruled my mammogram as normal. I am 43 and lost an aunt less than one year ago to breast cancer. I insisted that my family doc. take this serious and I have an appointment Friday April 10 with a surgeon. I have questioned myself about being persistant and I don’t want people to think I’m a drama queen, but I just don’t like what ever it is in my breast, cyst, lump, or tissue mass, I want it out.
Thanks again, I feel reasssured about being persistant. God Bless you and you look beautiful in all of the pictures, but especially the orange hair.
LIVESTRONG!!

]]> By: lisajanae http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3991 lisajanae Wed, 08 Apr 2009 22:49:30 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3991 I am so glad you went for that second opinion and are now stressing its importance as doctors DO sometimes make mistakes. Keep living STRONG and thanks for all the work you've already done in your 9 years with the LAF! I am so glad you went for that second opinion and are now stressing its importance as doctors DO sometimes make mistakes.

Keep living STRONG and thanks for all the work you’ve already done in your 9 years with the LAF!

]]> By: John http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3990 John Wed, 08 Apr 2009 22:14:43 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3990 Perfectly written! As a young cancer survivor myself - it couldn't have made a better point! And you look awesome with the new doo! I found out when I shaved my head and lost my hair that - you know you save on Airconditioning costs. Thank you thank you Thank YOU. Perfectly written! As a young cancer survivor myself – it couldn’t have made a better point!
And you look awesome with the new doo! I found out when I shaved my head and lost my hair that – you know you save on Airconditioning costs.

Thank you thank you Thank YOU.

]]> By: Justin http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3989 Justin Wed, 08 Apr 2009 21:57:35 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3989 Very inspirational. Excellent bog. LIVESTRONG. Very inspirational. Excellent bog. LIVESTRONG.

]]> By: Jeff http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3988 Jeff Wed, 08 Apr 2009 21:09:53 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3988 Renee, You are a perfect role model for all us young adults. Your true (color)toughness have emerged. I wish you all the best. Keep on LIVINGSTRONG! Thanks for all you do. Jeff Sheldon Renee,
You are a perfect role model for all us young adults. Your true (color)toughness have emerged. I wish you all the best. Keep on LIVINGSTRONG! Thanks for all you do.
Jeff Sheldon

]]> By: Lori HL http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3987 Lori HL Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:47:59 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3987 Renee, your writing is incredibly provocative and a true testament to your strength! Way to go! Wishing you all the best! Renee, your writing is incredibly provocative and a true testament to your strength! Way to go! Wishing you all the best!

]]> By: Amy P http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3986 Amy P Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:31:43 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3986 Renee, You're a pillar of strength with the will of steel and a heart of gold. Sharing your story puts a personal face on young adult cancer and will inspire fight in those who read it. Thank you for being a beacon of light!! Renee,
You’re a pillar of strength with the will of steel and a heart of gold. Sharing your story puts a personal face on young adult cancer and will inspire fight in those who read it. Thank you for being a beacon of light!!

]]> By: Antonia http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3985 Antonia Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:30:55 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3985 Renee, What a wonderful entry -- well done. Thank you for sharing, love you! Renee,

What a wonderful entry — well done. Thank you for sharing, love you!

]]> By: Jody Schoger http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3984 Jody Schoger Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:29:23 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3984 P.S. Please blog on. P.S. Please blog on.

]]> By: Darren Ascone http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3983 Darren Ascone Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:25:44 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3983 Well said Renee. For a non blogger, it was excellent! LiveStrong! Well said Renee. For a non blogger, it was excellent! LiveStrong!

]]> By: Laurie, Tommy's Mom, from Maine http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3982 Laurie, Tommy's Mom, from Maine Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:24:52 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3982 Renee, Your voice is strong and clear and so many people will hear you! Thank you for your courage and willingness to post and get the word out about young adult cancer, and, sadly, about some medical personnel still unaware. Tommy and I and our whole Maine family send you our love. We have thought about you a lot this past year and so are so happy you are doing well. Love, love, love the photos - Demi would be proud to be you! We will be in Philly this year again. See you there if you can make it to that Challenge! Keep Blogging! Livestrong. Renee,
Your voice is strong and clear and so many people will hear you! Thank you for your courage and willingness to post and get the word out about young adult cancer, and, sadly, about some medical personnel still unaware. Tommy and I and our whole Maine family send you our love. We have thought about you a lot this past year and so are so happy you are doing well.
Love, love, love the photos – Demi would be proud to be you!
We will be in Philly this year again. See you there if you can make it to that Challenge!
Keep Blogging!
Livestrong.

]]> By: Becky http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3981 Becky Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:21:03 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3981 Hi, I was diagnosed at age 36 I am now almost 51. You rock and I love the orange wig. Life goes on...and we live stronger because of it. Good luck to you!! B Hi,

I was diagnosed at age 36 I am now almost 51. You rock and I love the orange wig. Life goes on…and we live stronger because of it.

Good luck to you!!

B

]]> By: Kim in Austin http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3980 Kim in Austin Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:16:15 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3980 Renee! I love seeing you on the days you come in the office, I love hearing your voice, I love your laughter, your smile, and your eagerness to continue being the beautiful person you are! I love you. Renee! I love seeing you on the days you come in the office, I love hearing your voice, I love your laughter, your smile, and your eagerness to continue being the beautiful person you are! I love you.

]]> By: Jacqueline http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3979 Jacqueline Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:14:24 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3979 Your words are so important. My nephew's wife was told she didn't need tests for the lump in her breast either. Unfortunately for her, the six months she was told to wait was too long and we lost her after a valiant battle at age 29. Your words are so important. My nephew’s wife was told she didn’t need tests for the lump in her breast either. Unfortunately for her, the six months she was told to wait was too long and we lost her after a valiant battle at age 29.

]]> By: Mike in Tampa http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3978 Mike in Tampa Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:02:39 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3978 Love the Mohawk pic, but the orange hair is awesome!!! You look fantastic....keep up the fight!!!!!!!! Love the Mohawk pic, but the orange hair is awesome!!!
You look fantastic….keep up the fight!!!!!!!!

]]> By: Rita http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3977 Rita Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:01:51 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3977 Renee, wow! what a voice! You oughta do more blog entries -- you really can write! and your message is so important -- we all know our bodies better than any other person and usually our instincts are right (as yours were and are!) You embody LIVESTRONG. Renee,
wow! what a voice! You oughta do more blog entries — you really can write!
and your message is so important — we all know our bodies better than any other person and usually our instincts are right (as yours were and are!)
You embody LIVESTRONG.

]]> By: Jody Schoger http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3976 Jody Schoger Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:00:25 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3976 Renee, Thanks so much for your courage, your inspiration and your absolutely fabulous photos!! The orange hair!! Outstanding. And thank you for honoring your instincts. Take care. Renee, Thanks so much for your courage, your inspiration and your absolutely fabulous photos!! The orange hair!! Outstanding. And thank you for honoring your instincts. Take care.

]]> By: Patrick Chatfield, LSC Seattle City Mentor http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3975 Patrick Chatfield, LSC Seattle City Mentor Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:59:55 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3975 Renee - You totally rock. In the years that I have known you, you rocked before cancer, and you rocked during and afterwards as a survivor. As part of the Challenge Mentor team, scattered across the country, I can tell you that we were all hit in the gut when we heard of your diagnosis, but knew that you would rebound with the determination, energy and positive that is your trademark. Thanks for the great post - I know it will be forwarded to a lot of folks, and it will make a difference. See you in Seattle for the Challenge in June, I hope! Keep on rocking! P. Renee -

You totally rock. In the years that I have known you, you rocked before cancer, and you rocked during and afterwards as a survivor.

As part of the Challenge Mentor team, scattered across the country, I can tell you that we were all hit in the gut when we heard of your diagnosis, but knew that you would rebound with the determination, energy and positive that is your trademark.

Thanks for the great post – I know it will be forwarded to a lot of folks, and it will make a difference.

See you in Seattle for the Challenge in June, I hope!

Keep on rocking!

P.

]]> By: Schlonge http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3974 Schlonge Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:51:19 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3974 Renee-You are so georgous! It is great to see that smile of yours that I miss so much! Thanks for the inspiration. Renee-You are so georgous! It is great to see that smile of yours that I miss so much! Thanks for the inspiration.

]]> By: Halley http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3973 Halley Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:40:52 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3973 Renee - Thank you for sharing your story, you are an inspiration! Renee – Thank you for sharing your story, you are an inspiration!

]]> By: Brenda http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3972 Brenda Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:40:27 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3972 Renee, Great blog sista!! Thanks for sharing your story! Much love from me to you!! BWare Renee,
Great blog sista!! Thanks for sharing your story! Much love from me to you!! BWare

]]> By: Wendy S. Harpham, MD http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3971 Wendy S. Harpham, MD Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:39:59 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3971 Dear Renee, For someone who is unsure how to blog, you offered a powerfully written post with important messages: 1) You are never "too young." 2) If one clinician blows off your concern, assuring you everything is fine without doing the studies needed to know that, get a second or third opinion. 3) If you do have cancer, you'll do what you have to do and you can try to have fun with it at the same time (e.g. colorful wigs). Wishing you strength, hope, as many moments of happiness as possible in the midst of tough times, and renewed good health. With hope, Wendy Dear Renee,
For someone who is unsure how to blog, you offered a powerfully written post with important messages:
1) You are never “too young.”
2) If one clinician blows off your concern, assuring you everything is fine without doing the studies needed to know that, get a second or third opinion.
3) If you do have cancer, you’ll do what you have to do and you can try to have fun with it at the same time (e.g. colorful wigs).

Wishing you strength, hope, as many moments of happiness as possible in the midst of tough times, and renewed good health.

With hope, Wendy

]]> By: Camille http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3970 Camille Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:29:27 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3970 Wonderful story and great advice. Live strong and I hope your orange wig brings joy to you and everyone who sees you--it sure made me smile! Wonderful story and great advice. Live strong and I hope your orange wig brings joy to you and everyone who sees you–it sure made me smile!

]]> By: Sarah http://blog.livestrong.org/2009/04/08/renees-story-employee-and-young-adult-cancer-survivor/#comment-3969 Sarah Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:26:46 +0000 http://livestrongblog.org/?p=1528#comment-3969 You are so brave and I LOVE the pictures... I had my mom shave my head when too much of my hair had fallen out, I am 30 years old and am 9 years in remission from Luekemia, and I can still remember how I thought I would look after the buzzcut. I wasn't exactly as sexy as Demi Moore in GI Jane but I grew to love it, eventually:) Thanks fo sharing your story! Sarah You are so brave and I LOVE the pictures… I had my mom shave my head when too much of my hair had fallen out, I am 30 years old and am 9 years in remission from Luekemia, and I can still remember how I thought I would look after the buzzcut. I wasn’t exactly as sexy as Demi Moore in GI Jane but I grew to love it, eventually:)
Thanks fo sharing your story!
Sarah

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