stories of survival
Dr. Violeta B. Caceres
Dr. Violeta B. Caceres, Optometrist
Married to Dr. Jorge Caceres, ENT
12 Year old son - Andres B. Caceres
Resident of Birmingham since 1987
On August 13, 2003 an invasive ductal-cell carcinoma was removed from my right breast via a lumpectomy. As I woke up from the anesthesia, I heard the surgeon tell my husband: “It is cancer”.
I couldn’t believe it. I remember thinking that I was too young to die. I couldn’t die!
My son needed me. It was then when I determined to fight this disease and become a survivor!
The treatment was not easy, but my faith in God, my positive attitude, the help of my family and friends, and my wonderful team of doctors helped me get through this powerful journey. A journey that took about a year to complete and that made me a healthier, stronger person. I had 12 cycles of chemotherapy, two more lumpectomies, 30 days of radiation, and then started on oral Tamoxifen once a day.
Just as I finished my treatments in 2004, I was ready to make a difference in the world of breast cancer. I found a new mission in life. I became an advocate for the disease and started raising money for education, prevention, early diagnosis and most importantly for research. I became a fundraising diva for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. As a result, I began being referred to as “The Pink Lady”. I also became active with the Angel Squad , Adventures For the Cause, and American Cancer Society. In 2006, I developed the “Vision for the Cure” Program to raise additional funds for breast cancer research at UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Year after year I was raising more and more money for the fight against breast cancer and all the foundations began congratulating me for my achievements. On August 2006 I received the “Life Inspiration Award“ from the American Cancer Society because of my commitment with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. In May 2007 the Susan G. Komen “For the Cure” named me, “Birmingham’s Local Hero” for the Tom Williams’ BMW Drive for the Cure. I was proud of all these achievements and with the fact that my world has turned out to be “Pink”.
Just as I was feeling so good for all my achievements and just after finishing the “Race for the Cure 2007” this past October , Bam!. A Ct-Scan reveals several small masses in my lungs. A painful lung biopsy confirmed the cancer diagnosis. “Oh, God”! Why again? I cried like a baby. I couldn’t stop crying after the doctor called me with the pathology report. But just like when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was determined to fight again and re-gain my status as a survivor. If I did it once, I can do it again!
I am presently undergoing chemotherapy and prayer therapy, and pretty soon my body will once again be in total remission. I am keeping Jesus and Virgin Mary by my side, a positive attitude, a great loving family and a circle of friends who are willing to offer a helping hand. I also have my wonderful oncologist, Dr. Forero, who cares for me and is making sure that I get the best treatment.
There is a reason why I was chosen. For I am strong, I am special, I am “The Pink Lady”.
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BCRFA News
Gift of 100 free pre-commitment for the Funding Breast Cancer Research in AL specialty tag have been claimed!
Mary and Charles Welden of Birmingham, AL graciously provided a gift to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama to provide 100 Alabamians with the “Funding Breast Cancer Research” license plate. As a breast cancer
announcements
The BCRFA donates $227,500 to the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center on December 6, 2007.
stories of survival
Gina Atkins
On May 25, 2006 I jumped in the shower like every other day, not knowing my life would be forever changed.
As I reached for my shower gel, my right arm rubbed up against the outer side of my right breast.
