POPPY'S STORY - Cancer is a word that elicits feelings of fear and helplessness. Whether you are a survivor, family or friend, the feeling of uncertainty is lurking.

In the spring of 1994, I was preparing for a happy occasion -- my upcoming marriage to the love of my life. We were married in February. In March I discovered a small lump in my left breast. I went to my physician, who referred me to a surgeon, who performed an immediate biopsy. The biopsy was positive for breast cancer and, after the diagnosis, I was scheduled for surgery in April.

At the tender age of 32, a woman's self-image is so sensitive. Add a diagnosis of breast cancer, and it can be fragile. I felt the fragility of my emotion and body during the whirlwind of doctor speak and treatment. Later in the winter of 2004, I found a large mass in my right breast. Not only did I feel the sense of loss due to the mastectomy, I also suffered the physical and emotional effects of extensive chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, hysterectomy and numerous re-constructive surgeries. I did not go through this alone. I felt the support of my guardian angels above and here on earth.

In spite of the adversities of breast cancer, I remain grateful for the many blessings that have come forth from the disease. I have seen my daughter mature into a beautiful young woman. She married and I became a grandmother. The weekly visits I have with my daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter bring such joy that the fear of cancer no longer holds a place in my life. I have developed so many wonderful friendships in the "World of Pink", and I hope that others experience the kinship as well. If I could speak to all women I would say, "Have faith in God, yourself and your family. Bring joy and laughter into every minute of your life. It's the little things that make us happy."

Prevention is the key. We need to teach women and men of all ages about routine self-breast examinations and mammograms and to incorporate good nutrition, exercise and stress management as essentials. We need to encourage each other as women and men, offering words of wisdom and support daily, not just when needed. We should be setting strong, healthy examples as role models for our daughters and granddaughters.