When I went for my yearly mammogram in March 1999, I didn't know it would save my life as well as change my life as I had known it.

Little did I know a cancerous lump would be detected in my right breast.

After a lengthy discussion with my doctor, I opted for surgery, and seven lymph nodes were also found involved. I did eight chemotherapy treatments and 25 rounds of radiation.

The morning after my surgery, a Reach to Recovery volunteer visited me in my hospital room. She explained some exercises to do, told me what to expect and gave me educational pamphlets and other items.

These volunteers serve as role models -- people who have survived cancer and gone on to live productive lives. They are part of the American Cancer Society's support group made possible by Relay for Life fundraisers. I am proud to say I'm a Reach to Recovery volunteer myself.

As a 16-year cancer survivor, I feel I'm one of the fortunate ones and try to help other women facing the same diagnosis. I've served as chairwoman and co-chairwoman of the Jackson and Cape County relays. This is my 15th year to be on a committee and be involved with the annual Relay for Life event. Relay has become an important part of my life and my family's.

My son Chris has helped in the past by being one of my cooks whenever I needed a meal. His wife, Stacy, has been a member of our K of C Ladies Auxiliary team for the past 14 years. My son Craig has served as chairman of the finance committee along with his wife, Beth.

My brother and sisters, along with many of my friends, have become active in Relay because they just can't tell me no.

My husband, Darell, has always supported my dedication to Relay and is a 10-year prostate cancer survivor. He gets to walk the Survivor Lap with me -- the opening lap of Relay. At Relay events, cancer survivors and caregivers can come together and be recognized for their personal fight against this dreaded disease.

My K of C Ladies Auxiliary friends have sponsored a team for 15 years, which has raised more than $100,000 in the fight against cancer.

One of the wonderful things about the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life is the money raised helps support research.

The medications I have been on were developed by this research money. The ACS supports many bright cancer researchers who are getting us closer to a world with less cancer and celebrating more birthdays.

I feel each day is a blessing for me, and things don't always have to be perfect. I feel my continued support of Relay events will help save the lives of many more people.

At this year's Cape County Relay, there will be lots of fun for all. The teams will sell food of all kinds, and there will be entertainment and games. A basket auction also is planned, with the teams donating all sorts of items, including Cardinals baseball tickets, gift certificates and just a little bit of everything.

The public is invited to come out to Arena Park on June 13 to enjoy a fun-filled day of family entertainment. The opening ceremonies begin at noon and continue until midnight. What a great way to spend the day with cancer survivors and raise money for a great cause.