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Countdown to National Cancer Survivor’s Day

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Meet Our Voices

Toby Williams

My name is Toby Williams. My journey with the American Cancer Society began in 2007.  That year I participated in Making Strides and Relay in memory of my mom and grandmother.  My desire was to stand up and fight so no one else would lose a loved one to cancer.  At Relay, I joined Cancer Prevention Study-3.

After a mammogram in January 2015, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  I was determined to beat cancer for my mom!  Being an educator for 25 years, I researched how to fight illnesses and was ready to teach others.  My church supported me in a Cancer Care Ministry.  They sponsor an annual community event to educate how to fight before, during, and after cancer.  No one walks alone and we would fight together!

After my sixth surgery, my granddaughter pushed me to the finish line in a wheelchair with a Survivor sash across my chest at Stride event.  My goal was to get stronger so could walk beside others, fighting to box out cancer.  Six months later, with family at my side and with tears streaming down my face, I walked a Relay survivors lap.  ACS then provided me with the opportunity to serve on a Survivor and Caregiver Committee, plan a Tea, and cheer on survivors at Making Stride.

Originally a hillbilly from Kentucky, I now enjoy sand between my toes on Florida’s Emerald Coast with my knight in shining armor of 40 years.  We share life with five children and fifteen grandchildren.  I enjoy instructing Senior Citizens exercises, reading Christian fiction, jigsaw puzzles, playing cards, walking trails, and traveling.

Each day is a gift from God!  I choose to live a sparkling life, splashing Jesus – Joy and Hope. I share my story at every opportunity and encourage others to get screenings.  I am a cheerleader to many, an ear to those that need one, and a shoulder to lean on.

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