In January of 2015, Elsa received the devastating news that she was in the early stages of Stage II breast cancer in her left breast (also known as Stage pT2pN0M0). She made the conscious decision to undergo a double mastectomy and removal of her lymph nodes on February 13, 2015. This was one of the best decisions she could have made for herself because she did not want to risk the cancer spreading to any other part of her body. The surgery was a success thanks to the great doctors and oncologists at MUSC’s Hollings Cancer Center, mainly Dr. Cole, Dr. Brescia, and Dr. Eckert! On April 10, 2015, Elsa began her chemotherapy treatment. It was a long process, but the warm and welcoming nurses and port nurses made her treatment all the better because they let her know that they were there for her.
One of the best days this year was on Friday, August 21, 2015, the day Elsa completed her chemotherapy treatment and shared the traditional ringing of the bell with family, friends, and coworkers. This was such a joyous victory and there was not a dry eye in the room! You could feel the outpouring of love and support she received from everyone. Elsa chose to have this event because she wanted her journey to be something that others in the same position could look at and feel that they have a chance and know they should not let their sickness determine how they live their lives. Anyone who knows Elsa knows that she is always the life of the party and has such a humble and inspiring spirit, but she also had days that she felt weak. We all know that was only temporary!
Tomorrow is not promised for anyone and life is too short to not want to live it out to your full potential. We can all learn from Elsa’s experience and know that age and physical ability are all states of mind. Regardless of everything that was going on in Elsa’s life, she never complained. Elsa hopes that this event and her story touched someone to know: regardless of your situation, make the best out of the worst.
“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning to dance in the rain!” –Vivian Greene
Many are many other Survivor I know whom I want t honor these awesome women.
Faith Washington
Loretta Ravenel
Julia Ann White
Also survivors whose battles ended with our loss being heaven's gain.
Cindy "Lisa " Grant
Vera Gillie
Shelia Sanders
