Face of Hope, March 2014 – Lara (Louisville, KY)

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1. How did you become connected with Hope Scarves?

I am the founder of Hope Scarves. This idea grew from my personal experience when a friend of a friend sent me a box of scarves and a note of encouragement when I was facing breast cancer 6 years ago. Hope Scarves was my way of turning a scary time in my life into something positive to help others.

2. If you donated a scarf please share what this experience meant to you or if you received a scarf and story please share how this impacted your healing journey?

Receiving those scarves from Kelley meant so much to me. Just knowing another young woman like me had faced this disease and made it through gave me hope I could do it to. When I started giving my scarves away I was equally touched. It meant so much to me to pass along the strength and courage I gained on my journey to someone else just starting out. Now, when we send out over 20 scarves a week- I am just in awe of the power of encouragement and hope being shared between women. I love what Hope Scarves has become and that it brings Hope to so many women when they are scared.

3. What are the things that provided hope and strength to you throughout your battle?

I am motivated by other women in my situation – hearing stories of determination and seeing them face this disease helps me believe I can as well. I have an amazing doctor who helps me believe in myself and gives me lots of room to be hopeful even when things were dire. I also have an amazing support network of friends and family that picks up all the pieces I can’t carry anymore. I am spending a lot of time looking at the mind, body, spirit connection and nurturing each piece. I realize that cancer takes a toll on all three

4. Where are you currently on your cancer journey? Tell us how you are living life over cancer.

I was diagnosed with stage iv metastatic disease on jan.9th first diagnosis of stage II breast cancer in 2007. It has been quite a blow to my “hope” to be diagnosed with advanced breast cancer. I really thought I had beaten it after everything we went through 7 years ago. This diagnosis has been a lot harder to comprehend and accept but I am doing the same things I did 7 years ago- finding women living with this same diagnosis, surrounding myself with good doctors and leaving room for hope. Having an advanced stage diagnosis brings so much unknown. I think that has been the hardest part. Not knowing how long I have to live, not knowing if this disease will progress quickly or hold stable, not knowing how my body will react to treatments
 but, I am trying really hard to live life over cancer and take it one day at a time. Just soaking up the love and laughter I am a part of today.

5. What do you wish other people knew about Hope Scarves?

I hope people will recognize Hope Scarves as a resource for cancer fighters and also for cancer survivors. As our requests for scarves increase we really need more survivors to share stories and encouragement!

6. What would you tell someone who is thinking about sending a Hope Scarf to a friend battling cancer?

Do it! No matter where they are in their journey – they deserve a little hope. If even for a moment – hope is an amazing gift.

7. What is one of your dreams or goals for the future?

I would love to have the opportunity to share Hope Scarves at the national level – like on Good Morning America or The Today Show. Most of all, I just want to live life as fully and love as deeply as possible for as long as I can.

8. What is your favorite inspirational quote or words to live by?

“In the end, only three things will matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you.” Gandhi

9. If your friends or family had to describe you in two words, what would those be?

Joyful & positive

10. Please share something you learned having gone through cancer – either as a survivor or as having a loved one with cancer.

I have learned that my hope isn’t all nestled in survival anymore. Obviously I love to hear about women living with metastatic breast cancer for years and years. I would love to live with this disease for a very long time. But, my bigger hope is to live as fully as I can each day. To nurture my mind, body and spirit – to put as much of myself into our children so they know I am always with them and to figure out how to live life over cancer and be happy in the time I have.

Face of Hope, February 2014 – Sandra (Louisville, KY)

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1. How did you become connected with Hope Scarves?

Two years ago I went to a fundraiser for Young Survivors Group at Norton. I met Lara’s dad and he was so inviting and shared his story about his daughter and Hope Scarves. I was intrigued by the idea of the scarves and thought the scarves were so pretty.

2. If you donated a scarf please share what this experience meant to you or if you received a scarf and story please share how this impacted your healing journey?

I donated several scarves and my story with Hope Scarves to encourage other women in this fight. It was such a special experience to have an outlet to do this.

3. What are the things that provided hope and strength to you throughout your battle?

One of the biggest things besides my faith and belief in a higher power has been sharing experiences with other survivors and women who have been through what I have been through. They are willing to walk my journey with me and hold my hand. This has been so encouraging.

4. Where are you currently in your life after cancer?  Tell us about your hobbies, interests, family and what is going on these days.

I had a re-occurrence in March of 2013. My cancer metastasized to my bone and other areas. I am stage 4. I am in the middle of an aggressive treatment with infusions and injections. I am hopeful and my prognosis is good, but I am uncertain of my future.

5. What do you wish other people knew about Hope Scarves?

I think it is important for people who have received scarves to send them back when they finish treatment and share their story. There is someone out there who will benefit from your encouragement and find hope in your story. Pass it on!

6. What would you tell someone who is thinking about sending a Hope Scarf to a friend battling cancer?

Do it! A Hope Scarf is practical but it also a great way to communicate that you care.

7. What is something that you would like to do that you haven’t done yet? (ie. Bucket List)

I’d like to go out on New Years Eve with a nice looking gentleman and dance the night away in a ballroom.

8. What is your favorite inspirational quote or words to live by?

The grass is always greener on the side you water.

9. If your friends or family had to describe you in two words, what would those be?

Sweet – (even my blood sugar is high)
Compassionate

10. Please share something you learned having gone through cancer.

I’ve become a better human being going through cancer. I am able to understand life and its twists and turns and ups and downs. Tomorrow isn’t promised to anyone so make the best of today.

Face of Hope, January 2014 – Esther (West Valley, NY)

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1. How did you become connected with Hope Scarves?

My son’s teacher, Mary Lou Forster, donated to Hope Scarves in my name. I received a scarf in the mail.

2. If you donated a scarf please share what this experience meant to you or if you received a scarf and story please share how this impacted your healing journey?

I loved the concept behind Hope Scarves. Membership into the cancer warrior group is not a voluntary membership yet there is a sisterhood among those who have endured. Those who have gone before reaching to those who are coming up the ranks and telling them there is hope is a wonderful concept. I was touched that the scarf of the warrior that I received had the same exact type of cancer and the same surgery. I checked with Mary Lou and she did not know the particulars of my cancer. So this “coincidence” gave me even more awe.

There is a song called “Borrow Mine” that immediately came to mind. The lyrics:

You can borrow mine when your hope is gone
Borrow mine when you can’t go on
‘Cause the world will not defeat you when we’re side by side
When your faith is hard to find, you can borrow mine, borrow mine

This is the concept of Hope Scarves. Love it!

3. What are the things that provided hope and strength to you throughout your battle?

My faith in God and support from friends, family, and survivors. I had a peace that even though I may not know what the purpose was, there was a reason beyond what I could see. There were so many messages from my Pastor, music, and “coincidences” that gave me peace and assurance. I had many strangers come up to me without knowing I had cancer and tell me that I was glowing or that I had a beautiful smile. I was dumbfounded. The peace I felt was appartently evident.

4. Where are you currently in your life after cancer?  Tell us about your hobbies, interests, family and what is going on these days.

I am looking forward to tax season. I was diagnosed in December last year so I missed tax season completely. I just became Quickbooks Certified this week so I will also have some new bookkeeping clients. I had the opportunity to speak at a “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” in October. I am a Zumba enthusiast and enjoy learning to “dance” while celebrating what my body can do.

5. What do you wish other people knew about Hope Scarves?

I think people need to know it exists. The concept is so wonderful. It is a great gift to give to someone.

6. What would you tell someone who is thinking about sending a Hope Scarf to a friend battling cancer?

I can’t think of a better gift. You will be blessing the receiver more than she can express.

7. What is something that you would like to do that you haven’t done yet? (ie. Bucket List)

I had been wanting to tour New York City and go to the Empire State Building. I did that for my birthday last month! It was wonderful. In the future, I want to tour Italy. All of it.

8. What is your favorite inspirational quote or words to live by?

Music and music lyrics were very inspirational to me. I chose two songs as my theme songs for 2013. “10,000 Reasons” and “Worth It All”.

These lyrics often came to mind:

“Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me, Let me be singing when the evening comes.”

9. If your friends or family had to describe you in two words, what would those be?

Strong. Inspirational.

10. Please share something you learned having gone through cancer.

I have a new perspective on life. It is empowering to face adversity and fear and come out on the other side. The support I received warmed my heart and changed me. I am able to let things go easier because everything else pales in comparison to what I already went through. I learned to think about what I want to do rather than what is expected of me. I am living.

Face of Hope, December 2013 – Jennifer (Louisville, KY)

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1. How did you become connected with Hope Scarves?

I first read about Hope Scarves in a local publication, right after my diagnosis. Not long after, two different women I know requested that scarves be sent on my behalf.

2. How did receiving the scarf and story impact your healing journey?

It was such a treat to receive a colorful, pretty scarf in the mail, along with a cancer survivor’s story. It gave me hope that I, too, can beat this illness. I felt as if I was “carrying the torch,” so to speak, and continuing the fight in the battle of beating cancer. And, it helped to wear something that made me feel feminine, because breast cancer can certainly rob you of your femininity.

3. What are the things that provided hope and strength to you throughout your battle?

My children, family members and friends kept me going. My kids are ages eight and six, and I plan to be in their lives for a very long time – see them graduate, start careers, get married. Plus, there’s so much more that I want to do in my life, so those thoughts, and the help of a great support system, kept me motivated.

4. Where are you currently in your life after cancer?  Tell us about your hobbies, interests, family and what is going on these days.

I finished with chemo on July 5. I had a double mastectomy on Aug. 13 and my pathology report revealed no more cancer! I started radiation on Oct.19 and will be finished the day before Thanksgiving, which I think is rather appropriate. Before my diagnosis, I was into running, so when I can, I take walks to stay active, with the hope that I’ll be a runner again. I took up horseback riding recently and love it! I’m learning English-style riding. It’s very athletic, yet therapeutic to be around the horses. I’m really enjoying myself. I’m also an avid reader and I like to garden. Slowly, but surely, I’ll return to doing the activities I love. Of course, my kids’ many extracurricular activities keep me busy as well.

5. What do you wish other people knew about Hope Scarves?

It truly is about hope. It’s not only about receiving something you can wear while going through chemo, it’s learning the stories of other cancer survivors. You find you’re part of this sisterhood of survivors and that’s a good feeling. You’re not alone.

6. What would you tell someone who is thinking about sending a Hope Scarf to a friend battling cancer?

Do it! It’s such a thoughtful gesture and speaking as a recipient, it’s a wonderful feeling to know that someone is thinking of you and cheering you on.

7. What is something that you would like to do that you haven’t done yet? (ie. Bucket List)

Travel more. I would love to visit Greece, Italy and Spain, among other locales.

8. What is your favorite inspirational quote or words to live by?

“She is clothed in strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” – Proverbs 31:25

9. If your friends or family had to describe you in two words, what would those be?

Strong and witty.

10. Please share something you learned having gone through cancer.

I learned that I could dig deeper that I ever thought possible. And, a good attitude will not only get you through it, but will help you thrive. I also found that I want to pay it forward for others. I met so many wonderful cancer survivors who gave me hope and I want to be there for others fighting the good fight.

Face of Hope, November 2013 – Kelley (Mattews, NC)

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1. How did you become connected with Hope Scarves?

I have joked that I am the original “scarf wearer.” Five years after I went through treatment for breast cancer I heard about Lara McGregor through a mutual friend. After hearing that she was going through treatment while 7 months pregnant, I had to send her something. So I sent her a box of scarves and a short note hoping it would provide her a little encouragement. From there, Lara passed those scarves to someone she met at a conference who was going through treatment and the idea for Hope Scarves was born.

2. 2. If you donated a scarf please share what this experience meant to you or if you received a scarf and story please share how this impacted your healing journey?

I never could have imagined what one good deed would turn into with Lara’s vision. In October, I was able to go see Hope Scarves for myself and meet some of the women who received scarves. I was touched by the women saying wearing the scarves was a “badge of courage” and that they earned the right to wear them. Many of them said it gave them strength knowing that someone else wore that scarf and survived. The idea is simple, but the message of hope is one that no one can put into words. Hope may be the only thing that people, who are fighting for their lives, may have.

3. What are the things that provided hope and strength to you throughout your battle?

My family and friends definitely helped me during my battle with breast cancer. They never let me get too down and always encouraged me to live as normal of a life as possible through it all. My sister also gave me a journal soon after I was diagnosed. I had never written in a journal before, but I was able to write down my fears and thoughts during that time. It allowed me a place to be honest and not have to worry about what someone else would think or how my fears may my loved ones feel. I tried to give myself a few minutes a day to feel sad or angry and then I had to move on and try to live my life without dwelling on those fears.

4. Where are you currently in your life after cancer?  Tell us about your hobbies, interests, family and what is going on these days.

I am currently 11 years cancer free, which feels amazing. In many ways I feel I have truly put that part of my life behind me. My husband and I now have 2 beautiful children that we were told 11 years ago we could not have. I love to spend time with the kids playing outside and I have recently started taking photography classes. Life feels normal now. I look back at that time and I am grateful that I went through it. I am stronger than I ever thought I was and I feel I have the ability to keep life in perspective. I know what is truly important.

5. What do you wish other people knew about Hope Scarves?

After going to Louisville and meeting Lara, I would say it is truly an organization built from love. Hope Scarves is doing the work it set out to do-Provide hope and encouragement to those facing a tough battle ahead.

6. What would you tell someone who is thinking about sending a Hope Scarf to a friend battling cancer?

People often ask me what they can do to help someone who is facing cancer and it is not always easy to think of things that can help. A gift from Hope Scarves is a perfect way to show you care and offer encouragement to someone who needs it.

7. What is something that you would like to do that you haven’t done yet? (ie. Bucket List)

I love to travel so there are many places I still want to see like Spain, Portugal and Bora Bora. I am also working on writing a children’s book that I would love to see published one day. A personal goal would be to run a marathon (I better get going on starting that one). But mostly, I just want to enjoy the everyday things with my family.

8. What is your favorite inspirational quote or words to live by?

I love quotes and words of inspiration. The Serenity Prayer was very helpful while I was going through breast cancer. I would recite it to myself silently while I was getting chemotherapy. I was also moved when a stranger came up to me at the mall, when I was bald and looking pretty sickly and told me, “You can do this.” Those words have helped me through many difficult times. Today, I love to pin my favorite quotes on Pinterest. Some of them are funny and some of them are reminders to myself to keep things in perspective. Today I love the quote from Mother Theresa who said, “Do small things, with great love.”

9. If your friends or family had to describe you in two words, what would those be?

It may depend on the day, but I would say compassionate and genuine.

10. Please share something you learned having gone through cancer.

Facing a life altering event has to change you in some way. As I get further away from it, I forget that it had such an impact on me. I have felt what the words, “You have cancer,” can do. Your everyday life stops in that moment like hitting the pause button, and then after that you get to restart. I think the biggest impact it has had on me is I know I am strong, I know I can endure things that I never imagined. I wake up grateful for the battle scars and look forward to whatever comes my way.