JoAnne Radosevich was asked to write a testimonial for Sunday’s celebration of cancer survivors at Ottumwa Regional Health Center. Sonja Larsen of Ottumwa asked that it be shared with others in the Courier. “When I read it, I knew it was meant to be shared and I can attest to what she says as a true reflection of who she is and what she has done. She has been an inspiration to all those who have had to battle cancer, as well as all the family and friends who have shared the journey with her,” Larsen said.

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Hello, I’m JoAnne Radosevich and I am a cancer survivor. I was diagnosed in the late 80s with breast cancer and in the ensuing 20 years I have battled through three bouts of ovarian cancer, several more bouts of breast cancer and in 2007, a combination of both at the same time.

Thanks to Dr. Ahmed, Kathy, Peg and Cheryl on this day, National Cancer Survival Day, Sunday, June 1st I am again a cancer survivor. These four remarkable women were always there for me, not only with expert medical care but with hugs, big smiles and even funny jokes to distract me when chemo was dripping into my port. They’ve become just like family.

People have asked me “How do you cope?” When I was first diagnosed many years ago, I made a list of “I will” statements and I’d like to share a few with you today.

• I will listen carefully to what my doctor says to do — and I will do it: taking all medicines as directed, resting when needed, eating when possible. Campbell’s chicken noodle soup, dry toast and hot tea where my mainstays.

“How’s that for a gourmet meal?”

• I will always appreciate my hair (each time it grows back, that is). No more complaining about bad hair day. Any hair is great!

• I will accept my body as it has been affected by the disease — weight loss, vanishing eyebrows and eyelashes, poor skin tone, mouth sores. I will look in the mirror and say, “So what!!” I’ll just add on the eyeliner extra thick.

• I will make an effort to reach out to others who are going through cancer — to be as supportive as I can and then in turn hope to borrow their strengths.

• I will value old friends and new ones and will treasure the many members of my family who have helped me every step of the way during this long journey.

• Finally, I will face up to my own mortality and never take good health for granted again.

I’m thankful for each day I’m here — and will try to live each day and every day to the fullest.

Having had cancer has made me a stronger more caring and compassionate person. I’m proud to be a cancer survivor, just like all of you.