A Survivor’s Story – Sharon

I am an ordinary person experiencing an extraordinary life.

				I will never forget my initial exposure to THE QUILT. An invitation had been extended to the members of the Stratford “Circle of Friends” breast cancer support group to attend the 2001 Preview, and I felt an overwhelming curiosity to discover more about the project. Feeling exhausted and overwhelmed from undergoing chemotherapy treatments, I felt comforted and protected while strolling throughout the Exhibit, admiring the magnificent creations on display. It took three visits that year to view THE QUILT in its entirety, as I would have to depart prematurely – eyes filled with tears and choked with emotion.

Who would have thought that THE QUILT would leave such an indelible impression on my life? Since then, I have learned to machine quilt and have also worked in various volunteer capacities with THE QUILT.

Unfortunately, I was faced with another challenge after being diagnosed with metastatic cancer in August 2004. The chemotherapy regimen was intense. I was approved to receive an antibody that wasn’t in existence previously. The majority of the treatments were administered 40 weeks by the caring staff at the Stratford General Hospital chemotherapy unit. I am pleased to say that the cancer is presently in a state of remission.

Despite the circumstances, I have met several inspirational individuals and have received tremendous encouragement throughout my “Journey to Recovery”. Their expressions of support gave me the strength to persevere throughout the periods of anxiety and despair, by lending a helping hand with meals, driving through inclement weather to accompany me to treatments, booking the occasional day off from work to arrange a visit, lending an ear and sharing a hug or two.

This “Group Hug” photo is a tiny representation of my “Support Network”. Surrounding yourself with the comfort of family and friends is characteristic to the warmth of a cozy quilt. Many hands have reached out to lift my spirits and give me hope, and many hands will continue to create quilts to keep up the “Good Fight”.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to my spouse Perry Pressman, work colleague & friend Tom Gibson, girlfriend Ruth Huston and R.N. Rose Iacobellis for agreeing to be a part of THE QUILT’S 2006 season image. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.