Face of Hope, October 2014 – Maggie (Ellicott City, MD)

1. How did you become connected with Hope Scarves?

Lara contacted me through Facebook and offered to send me a scarf.

2. If you received a scarf and story please share how this impacted your healing journey?

Receiving my hope scarf was a wonderfully warm experience. It was very thoughtful of Hope Scarves to select a breast cancer survivor who was in her twenties like me. The story behind the scarf was very inspirational and reminded me that I am not alone in this journey. It has given me strength and hope which is what everyone in treatment needs.

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

Staying focused on a positive outcome
Family and Friends
Prayers and messages of support and encouragement on my Facebook page

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

I have completed half of my chemo treatments; three treatments remain. I expect to complete chemo by mid-October. Surgery will follow.

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

It is a terrific organization that connects cancer survivors with current cancer patients in a very positive way. Too often newly diagnosed cancer patients get negative messages about their prognosis and give up hope. It is very uplifting to connect with a cancer survivor and to receive a scarf worn by that person. The Hope Scarf is one of my favorites and I am honored to wear it. It helps me channel positive healing energy whenever I have it on.

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

During the months of treatment, there is very little to look forward to. Getting a surprise package in the mail really helps to lift the spirits, particularly when it is something as meaningful as a scarf that a cancer survivor wore during treatment. Along with the scarf was a personal note of encouragement from the former owner of the scarf which was a very nice touch that connects you to that survivor.

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

Beat cancer
Get back to dancing full time and move back to NYC
Grow Bald Ballerina into a non-profit foundation that provides grants for medical and living expenses for dancers with cancer

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

I have two sayings:
1. The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain! –Dolly Parton
2. For visualizing my cancer cells leaving my body: Another One Bites the Dust- Queen Song

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

Kind and Determined

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

Never give up. There are always cancer patients who defy medical statistics and live much longer than expectations.