Bonnie
I began my journey with CSC Atlanta after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003. Many of us have the support of family and close friends, but it is especially meaningful, and helpful, to meet with others who truly understand the fear and emotional ups and downs that are associated with cancer.
Following my bilateral mastectomy and recovery, I found myself consumed with worry, and I was looking for support. I'm so thankful to have discovered CSC Atlanta! I loved it so much that I started volunteering and now serve as the volunteer coordinator and an orientation leader for newcomers, and I continue to take advantage of the wonderful programs.
My passion for CSC Atlanta is based on what I see happening here time and time again. To be able to walk into a warm and inviting environment filled with people who have a strong “common denominator” is priceless. For many, it is difficult to walk in our door for the first time. It is such a privilege for me to be able to sit down with them and share the many wonderful areas of support we have to offer.
Brenda
In 2011, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and saw a brochure for CSC Atlanta in my oncologist’s office. It is such an uplifting and happy place, and I feel so fortunate to have found it. There is a unique camaraderie among the people here.
When I first became a member, I started with the evening Yoga classes and Breast Cancer Support Group. I also attended the Survivorship Series, which was invaluable in helping me return to a normal existence after chemo, surgery, and radiation. In 2013, I started attending programs even more frequently. I have to pace myself because there are so many that I want to attend! Right now I’m focused on the exercise classes. All of the instructors are compassionate and sensitive to our needs, yet still challenge me at my own pace. It’s individualized instruction that you cannot find in a regular gym – the kind we need for our restrictions. I consistently see improvements in my balance, flexibility, energy, and my mental and emotional health. It really says something when you get a good feeling just by walking through the door, and then feel fantastic when you leave.
Ann
In 2014, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Unfortunately, I was following in my mother and grandmother footsteps. And after 35 years of a rewarding career teaching in the Cobb County Schools and sharing my love for the arts and language with my students, I was faced with my uncharted territory of a cancer diagnosis. And shortly after my treatment, I was determined to find a healthy path back to wellness and wholeness.
Always feeling a sense of fear on my shoulder, I realized I needed to start a new journey. At my appointment with my Oncologist, I picked up a few CSC Atlanta brochures and shortly after that my visit to the Northside Women’s Center gift store, the (angel) woman behind the counter reinforced with me that the CSC Center was the place for me. I knew my faith was directing me there.
The day I walked into the CSC Center I felt a sense of coming home. I started with the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Support Group and 5 years later I am still participating. I feel now if I can help others through this cancer healing journey that is what I am going to do. My favorite classes are the support, nutrition and arts that bring me the most joy and comfort. In addition, the warm, compassionate facilitators and my connections with other members; feels like family. It is a safe place of healing and wellness. I have always said, if there is a blessing from cancer, this place would be it. This place is not about what type of cancer you have – it’s about all of us facing cancer together. It’s bigger than just your own journey. Here, you are making the journey together, sharing in a bond that makes all of us stronger. I love coming here because I’m always connecting with someone new – someone who’s seen days just like I have. I take advantage of almost all of the cooking demonstrations. I collect every recipe, and enjoy tweaking them to make them my own. The education programs that feature visiting psychologists, pharmacists, and attorneys are always valuable. It’s fun to attend the movie nights and the special programs from Spruill Center for the Arts. And I’ve recently started attending the Survivorship Series. There is always a new and exciting program to mix things up, and I say keep ‘em coming!