At the age of 49, Nancy Drexler learned she had breast cancer.  While living and working in Austin, Texas she had an annual mammogram which was negative.  Then eight months later after relocating to Waco, she discovered a lump in her breast and contacted a doctor immediately.  It was breast cancer, she had a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation.  Seventeen years later a blood test for the BRCA gene disclosed that something else was going on and she went through a series of test.  Ovarian cancer was discovered, so she had surgery, chemotherapy and was fine for about 1½ years and the cancer was back thus more chemotherapy.  She eventually had an allergic reaction to one of the chemotherapies and everything had to be shut down.  Her specialist recommended a brand new FDA drug called Lynparza had gotten approval in December 2014.  In March of 2015, Nancy started taking the drug and is currently still on it and has been cancer free since starting the drug.  She is extremely grateful for the research that went into developing this therapy drug.  Lynparza is now used in the first line of defense for ovarian cancer.

In 1996, Nancy became involved as a volunteer with the American Cancer Society (ACS), as a Relay For Life team leader, co-chair and chairman, Reach to Recovery, Road to Recovery volunteer, ACS Board Chairman, Fashion and Forum model and chairperson and been on the speaker board.  She was also one of the first to be nominated for the Heroes of Hope program.

As a survivor she still talks to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.  She also loves to dress up in costume and spread happiness to cancer patients at the Texas Oncology Center in Waco.  I believe Relay For Life helps so many people by funding ACS program resources and research.  It is also a voice for those who no longer have a voice.  Relay For Life offers HOPE!