Cancer Resource Team

Real Stories

Cheryl Llamas

In 1983 a benign tumor attached to my uterus began my journey with the big “C” when pre-cancer was discovered. What a blessing that uterine cancer was detected early.

In 1994, at age 50, I was single and becoming an empty nester (daughter off to college and son in the Air Force), when breast cancer appeared for the first time. Four and a half years later it attacked again in the other breast. This time my doctors recommended a double mastectomy with a transflap after enduring 14 breast procedures in a 4-year period.

Believe it or not, cancer has been a blessing in my life. Of course, in the beginning, it created such a whirlwind of confusion and fear for all involved, but not until the dust settled, not until the tears ceased, and not until the fears were calmed did I truly appreciate what cancer has added to my life.

The friendships I have made, the responsibilities I have taken on, the motivation I have acquired, the passion that has developed, the compassion that has grown, and the faith that has surpassed all fears has made me realize that the big “C” does not have to represent dreaded cancer - the big “C” can represent a hope in Christ.

With the help and support from a loving husband, the pastoral staff of the church, great friends, and ultimately our heavenly Father, we hope to be a source of information, love, and hope during your cancer journey.