The American Cancer Society was my beacon of hope when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 1991.  They provided me with valuable information and a Reach to Recovery volunteer who so impressed me that I later took the training to become one.  Their wonderful Road to Recovery drivers transported me during the six weeks of radiation following my mastectomy.   I received several weeks of group therapy in their Culver City office from an amazing marriage and family therapist who was herself a breast cancer survivor.   The support I received at that nightmarish time in my life was a godsend.

My mastectomy in 1991 spurred me into becoming a volunteer for the American Cancer Society.   Because I see education as a high priority, I am excited to be part of their outreach effort.   I have provided peer support to those diagnosed with breast cancer, have made presentations, and have participated in Making Strides and Relay For Life walks.   My fundraising efforts have received commendations from the American Cancer Society and the City Council of Culver City.

Although I had a lengthy career closing commercial real estate loans, I am also an artist and wanted to make a visual statement.  Accordingly, a few years ago I created my Hat of Hope, its ribbons representing those in whose honor or memory my Relay sponsors wanted me to walk.  The drawing is of Judy Glazer, a dear friend and true warrior who cofounded a Relay team in Arroyo Grande in 2007 following a breast cancer diagnosis.  Sadly, she died of pancreatic cancer in 2010.

I am Sandra Coopersmith of Culver City, CA. I enjoy speaking before groups of any size and am so very grateful to be alive and over 80, conveying the message that together, we CAN make a difference!!