My name is Marie Schultz & I was introduced to the Pink Pumpkin Project in 2016. In October of that year, I turned 40 & on the recommendation of my Doctor, I scheduled my first Mammogram. I really didn’t give it much thought, as I was scheduling all my other yearly routine appointments at the same time.  Unfortunately, they spotted a mass on my left breast right away & scheduled a Biopsy. A few weeks later I got the results : Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. I had Breast Cancer.  

 

The following  month was a whirlwind of emotions & Doctor appointments, Bloodwork, & decisions on my treatment plan, which included Chemotherapy, a Lumpectomy & removal of 11 Lymph Nodes, Radiation & a Hysterectomy.

 

It was during this month that a friend of mine, who is part of the PPP, stopped over to visit & brought me a pink tote bag full of gifts. She explained who the PPP was & how they help women in the area who are fighting Breast Cancer. This amazingly generous gift provided me with emotional, mental & financial support in a time of uncertainty & worry.

 

That same generosity has continued throughout my Cancer journey; through treatment & surgeries, recovery, follow ups & scans, highs & lows & everything in between. It is such a blessing to have this group of women in my life; women who are more than willing to give their time, energy, support & advice to help all of us thrive, no matter what stage of the journey we are at. All of the fun events they plan, the incredibly generous holiday parties & gifts, the annual 5k, the Support Group, the friendships made with other Fighters & Survivors ...the list goes on & on & on.

 

I will forever be grateful to be a part of The Pink Pumpkin Project! 

​

-Marie Schultz