Sharon's Story

I have been acquainted with Sharon Washburn for about 10 years, since I began attending Richland Hills Church of Christ. Her husband, Mike, now Executive Minister of the church, taught a premarital class Amanda and I attended. They both also co-facilitated a young couples class we went to. Most recently I have seen Sharon regularly as she would teach in a Bible class Sydney attended. Sharon is one of those people who genuinely loves people. She is warm, caring, and welcoming to those she comes in contact.

Sharon is fighting cancer right now.
She has already been keeping a blog http://www.sharonwashburn.blogspot.com which has many powerful thoughts on her life and her battle. She graciously agreed to write one about her battle and gave me permission to post it.

Having the courage to be transparent with your thoughts has given hope and courage to others in not only cancer but many struggles in life. Thank you Sharon!
Again, I am competing in a Half Ironman triathlon in October and I have asked for people to share their stories to foster support for the Lance Armstrong Foundation. You can make a donation to this cause via the link below.
http://www.livestrong.org/grassroots2009/paulaslinlonghorn09

Here is Sharon's Story:

"It Can Be Done!"

Shock! That's the only word that comes to mind when I heard I had cancer 6 months ago. I had no history of breast cancer in my family, am a non-smoker, had children before I was 30 & got a "clean" mammogram & sonogram only 5 weeks prior to discovering the golf-ball sized knot under my left arm! I had done everything right- in my mind- & still heard those dreaded words!

Not only did I have breast cancer, but it was fast growing & aggressive with only one medical regiment of treatment available. Even as my head was spinning with doctor appointments, scans & test results, the chemotherapy began. 8 rounds over 16 weeks. 4 months of intense, aggressive medications to fight a mean, aggressive cancer wanting to take my life!

Chemo is now done for me, as well as a mastectomy, but the journey still isn't complete. 5 weeks of radiation will begin next week & breast reconstruction surgeries will be in the spring of next year. Cancer- any cancer- is a long, daunting journey for the patient & their loved ones. Not one easy thing about facing cancer- but- IT CAN BE DONE!

*It can be done... with faith. I chose & still choose to walk this journey with God. He's the source of all strength, love & hope. He's on my side & I want Him close to me every step of the way. His peace is the peace I need! My family & I are stronger & closer through this journey because God is our refuge, protector & strength.

*It can be done... with love. I chose & still choose to surround myself with people I love & who love me. My husband & family are my anchor of support. Friends have constantly encouraged & supported us. Love is the best medicine ever!

*It can be done... with determination. I chose & still choose to think positively, to focus & do what I can to aid medical healing & count the blessings in the middle of this terrible circumstance. For there are always blessings in the midst of trouble.

Yes, this journey can be done! Facing cancer can be done one moment, one hour & one day at a time! With faith, love & determination, anything is possible!"

Thanks to Sharon and Mike Washburn for serving our church and impacting our lives and the lives of many other families for the glory of His kingdom. We will be making many more prayers on your behalf for continued healing and strength. Thanks for sharing your story!