Honorary chairs Kathleen Brumbaugh and Carolyn Motley share what Relay for Life and support mean

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[June 17, 2015]  LINCOLN - The upcoming Relay for Life does more than just provide funds for cancer research and prevention. It is also a great way to support to friends and family who have battled cancer. Kathleen Brumbaugh and Carolyn Motley, honorary co-chairs for the 2015 Relay for Life for cancer have had very different cancer journeys, but what they share in common is that both have had a lot of support during their battles.

Brumbaugh has been diagnosed with cancer twice, the first in 2007 and the second in winter 2015. In 2007, after finding out she had breast cancer and cancerous lymph nodes, Brumbaugh had a double mastectomy along with a removal of some lymph nodes. This year, after Brumbaugh suffered from a chronic cough for several months, doctors discovered that her cancer has returned and metastasized to other parts of her body. At this point, chemo pills seem to be keeping the cancer at bay.

Brumbaugh stated that each time she has had cancer, her church has been behind her as a support system, sending her cards and notes of encouragement or giving her money to help with expenses. Church members have also helped her with rides to doctor's appointments, chemo, and radiation, and this time, to her biopsy. She has always asked for and appreciated prayer support, too. Friends keep in touch with her about her progress.

Brumbaugh asserted that this treatment has been easier and seems to be working fairly well with almost no side effects from the chemo pills. Now it is about minimizing the effects since the situation is different from her previous bout with cancer. When she was diagnosed in 2007, she had recently turned 40 and her goal was to live to age 80. Now, Brumbaugh says, "My decisions are based on whether I will live to 60. I am facing mortality. The cancer is causing blood clots, so I will be on blood thinner for the rest of my life."

As Brumbaugh explains, "This new reality has hit me lately. Right now I am fighting a 'what does it matter' mindset. Even if I feel my life has been shortened, I don't want to give in to harmful impulses-- such as too much comfort eating--that might make it even shorter." She advises, "As with most big decisions in life, follow your heart. Get all the information you can to make educated choices. Some need to fight boldly, while others need to make more subtle options. Don't let others stop you from asking questions or force you into quick decisions."

Brumbaugh shares that she has known people who have pushed for options that have added time and some who decided against further treatment and says, "I like to support and respect both ideas."

Cancer survivor Carolyn Motley agrees that it is important to ask questions and know your options. Her cancer diagnosis was over 30 years ago in July 1983. Motley said that she saw a doctor about a spot on her skin that caused her concern. She had a biopsy that showed melanoma and when the doctor called to share the news with her the evening after the biopsy, he asked Motley if her husband was there with her and told her to sit down. Motley reports that she was anxious when the doctor shared the news with her, but he covered everything kindly, patiently, and carefully.

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Motley states that she was released the day of her surgery and the doctor told her husband that she came through surgery like a trooper. She did not have to have chemotherapy or radiation, though the doctor did have to do a second surgery to get all the cancer.

Motley declares that support means so much and goes a long way. She says the support during this time came from friends, family, coworkers, and church members. Motley said two coworkers even offered to go with her for the surgery. Her coworkers also sent her a flower arrangement. Motley appreciates that friends are there at these times and do whatever they can to help. She has provided support to others with cancer, too, working with the Relay for Life since 2004.

As far as how cancer has affected her life, Motley says she wears protective clothing now that keeps her from getting too much sun. She explains, "It has changed my life. I am more aware of time spent outside."

Motley said, "It has helped me cherish life more." She encourages everyone to "enjoy each day as much as you can."

Motley also states, "I let people know I think about them. I try to be there for people [because people have] got to have support. I have provided some with rides to Springfield."

As Motley notes, I like working with the Relay because it helps people right here in Lincoln with wigs etc..."

She is also happy to see that, "They have come a long way with treatments."

As these stories show, support of family and friends is an essential part of the cancer journey. Both grateful survivors see participation in, and support of, the Relay for Life as a way to support others battling cancer.

The Relay will take place at Lincoln College on Saturday, June 20, 2015 beginning at 12:00 p.m. and ending at midnight. For more information call Tonita Reifsteck at 217-855-6145 or look up www.relayforlife.org

[Angela Reiners]

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