My cancer journey has introduced me to a lumpectomy, radiation, bilateral mastectomy, and last but not least, several rounds of very harsh chemotherapy. Although some people’s journeys will be different than mine, very unique and different from everyone else’s, yet many will be very similar to those who have traveled the cancer highway. No matter if you’re 17, 57, or 100, you have hopes, dreams, tears, and obstacles to overcome along the journey.

The Battle

Strike 1- Winter of 1993. I was 48 years old. My husband detected a lump and insisted that I have the lump identified. It was breast cancer. I was harshly reminded that the war and battle against cancer was mine to win or lose. I received a lumpectomy and seven weeks of radiation. I truly believe that God is the director of healing and he was the director of my team.

Strike 2- Summer of 1995. I was 50 years old. I was on a vacation in the city of lights, Paris, France. I felt another lump much like a marble. Returning home three weeks later, I heard once again the cold noun, cancer. Due to the nature of my case, I had run out of choices so I raised my hand and accepted it. The last resort was an experimental procedure that got rid of the cancer for the second time.

Strike 3- Summer of August 2000. I was turning 55 years. My life was simplified, I thought. My husband and myself were both officially retired. I detected a growth on my chest wall; it was cancer again. My relationship with God had greatly flourished, so I crawled quietly into my Heavenly Father's lap with a purple blanket and received my chemotherapy and the gift of wellness once again.

2004 holds a new challenge for me to embrace my husband Nathaniel, and step side by side with him and God as he battles lung cancer. My family has always been my first priority of service. However, I do manage to volunteer as Ambassador to Sutter Solano Medical Center, President of Sister's Network; Solano County, California and Team Leader of National Breast Cancer Coalition of California. I am a Breast Health Advocate and Educator. I am also affiliated with the Women's Health Ministry of Union Baptist Church. My Love Ministry provides Love Baskets to breast cancer survivors.

I believe that survivorship demands the responsibility to be a advocate. I am eager to share my testimony and the challenges that God has blessed me to overcome. I am on a mission to encourage and inspire others. The battle can be won with God on your team.

Rev. Dr. Gloria Dean Wade-Lessier,
Vallejo, CA
3 - Time Winner In My Battle With Breast Cancer