2007 Profiles
Phyllis Witter, Green Bay
Unaware
that she was at increased risk for breast cancer because her mother
had been diagnosed several years earlier, Phyllis Witter went for her
first mammogram when she was 39. The results showed a high probability
of malignancy, and Phyllis later learned that her breast cancer had
spread. Phyllis urges everyone to learn about risk factors and to test
early when there's a medical reason to do so. She believes that if she
had gotten a mammogram sooner, doctors may have been able to treat the
cancer before it spread to her lymph nodes.
As
a seven-year survivor, Phyllis is grateful for events such as the Breast
Cancer Awareness Run/Walk. She says they give breast cancer the attention
it deserves.
Carol Golueke, East De Pere
As
a 10-year breast cancer survivor, Carol Golueke is an advocate of early
detection. She urges her six children to do monthly breast exams and
to follow American Cancer Society guidelines for routine mammograms.
She knows firsthand that patients have a much better chance of recovery
if breast cancer is found early.
Although
she walks with a cane and can't participate in the Breast Cancer Awareness
Run/Walk, Carol wants to show her support for those who can. Her daughters
have participated in the walk in the past, and she makes it a point
to attend the Candlelight Vigil each year.
Jim Joy, Green Bay
When
Jim Joy's mother retired, she looked forward to spending as much time
golfing as her heart desired. Unfortunately, Jean Joy was diagnosed
with breast cancer and lost her fight against the disease when she developed
complications from liver cancer. As a prostate cancer survivor, Jim
knows the importance of early detection and urges you to become educated
about cancer and to take action if you have a health concern.
Jim
is an avid walker. And on October 13 he'll be doing what he has done
for the past several yearspaying tribute to Jean by walking with a
picture of her on his back.
Gail Brady, Green Bay
Gail
Brady considers herself a healthy, active person with no family history
of breast cancer. Yet Gail was diagnosed with invasive carcinoma in
February 2007 at the age of 33. She wants everyone to be aware that
breast cancer doesn't discriminate. That's why it's important to know
your body and be proactive.
Gail
is looking forward to the Breast Cancer Awareness Run/Walk...because she'll
have finished the worst part of her treatment. October 13 will be a
day to celebrate with family and friends and to thank them for their
support!
Jeanne Kramer, Green Bay
Jeanne
Kramer was diagnosed with stage-three breast cancer in the fall of 2003.
Although she has no family history of breast cancer, Jeanne had faithfully
scheduled a mammogram every year. But it was Jeanne who found a suspicious
lump during her monthly breast exams, not the X-rays. She says everyonemen
and womenshould do monthly exams, because early detection improves
the outcomes for breast cancer patients.
Jeanne
supports the Breast Cancer Awareness Run/Walk because she wants you
to be aware of breast cancer so you can take good care of yourself.
She feels it's important for people to share information and help each
other.
Mary Reinhard, Howard
Mary
Reinhard perseveres in the face of adversity. She was diagnosed with
breast cancer when she was 33 and the mother of two preschoolers. Her
mother and two sisters also developed breast cancer when they were in
their 30s, and all three died of breast cancer in their 40s.
As
a 24-year survivor, Mary wants everyone to know the importance of awareness
about breast cancer and the value of screenings. If you're told you
have breast cancer, she says you shouldn't panic. Just take one day
at a time and stay positive. Mary vowed to be there to raise her children...and
she kept her promise.