I could not have gotten through my breast cancer journey without Mary. When I first heard the words “You have breast cancer”, I thought I was going to die. I remember sitting down and organizing my kids’ baby books because I wanted to get them done before I was gone. I felt extremely scared and alone. I did not have anyone to talk to or anyone to who I could relate. When I went to my first MDC meeting, I was told there was a support group and to call Mary to see when they met. From the moment I spoke to Mary, I felt a sense of PEACE. She shared with me the story of her sister-in-law being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and how she has been cancer-free and healthy 20 years later. Mary also told me other stories from other Survivors, that filled me with HOPE! I went to the first meeting and met so many women of different ages that shared their stories, some shared their phone numbers and reached out to me to see how I was doing during my surgery, and treatments.
When I was waiting to get my first chemo cycle, Mary was, coincidentally, in the waiting room with another breast cancer patient, who was going to see their doctor. Mary could tell I was scared and sat with me, and my husband, as I got my first treatment. I thank God she was there; I had a reaction to one of my anti-nausea meds and Mary was there to alert the chemo nurses and continue to comfort me, because I wanted to run out.
Mary has been there to answer questions about my care or to talk to me when I feel scared. Even though I am done with chemo and radiation I still love catching up with Mary and other breast cancer women during our meetings. These meetings let us know about medical treatments, survivor follow-up appointments, and support. Mary Johnson is a source of information, medical advocate, and comforting hand for all the breast cancer women whom she helps.