Riding across New York State isn’t for the faint of heart. It takes courage and a commitment to something greater than oneself. On the 10th anniversary of Empire State Ride, I’ve committed to cycling more than 550 miles (from July 21-27) from NYC to Niagara Falls for one reason: to end cancer. This is my opportunity to shape the future of cancer research and treatment while honoring everyone affected by cancer.
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Stacey's Cancer Journey
On April 10th 2023 I found a lump in my breast. It was in that moment that I knew my life would change forever. My diagnostic scans and biopsy quickly followed and I was given the news. The words no one ever expects to hear... "You have breast cancer".
The next few weeks were a whirlwind of appointments. I was relieved to have found a team of trusted physicians at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center whom I trusted (quite literally) with my life. I underwent surgery on June 6, 2023. The cancer had unfortunately spread to my lymph nodes, which did complicate my treatment somewhat. Following my surgical recovery, I began an intensive regimen of chemotherapy which ended on September 21, 2023. I excitedly rang the Roswell Victory Bell that day, surrounded by family and friends. However, my journey was not yet over. I began aggressive radiation therapy which serendipitously ended November 24th, the day after Thanksgiving. I had so much to be thankful for that day. I rang the Victory Bell again that day. Another battle won. I will remain in treatment as I continue targeted cellular and hormone therapy for 5-10 years. Also, I am considered high risk for recurrence, and will therefore undergo scanning every 6 months.
I am currently NED (no evidence of disease). Breast cancer survivors CAN live long and healthy lives, free of disease. Not long ago, breast cancer survival was half of what it is today. The advancements of research centers such as Roswell make this all possible.
Life changes after you have cancer. Chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies change your body in so many ways. I'm making peace with my new normal. I've learned to give myself grace. To take things a bit slower. To allow myself time to heal, mentally and physically. However, I am also excited to push myself to grow and accept amazing challenges! That is why the Empire State Ride is so important to me. Not only does it give me the chance to raise money for a very important cause, it also allows me to participate in a once in a lifetime activity that will, once again, forever change me.
I want to take this moment to thank my team of physicians at Roswell:
Dr. Jessica Young (breast surgeon)
Dr. Cemile Ozturk (plastic / reconstructive surgeon)
Dr. Shipra Gandhi (medical oncologist)
Dr. Simon Fung (radiation oncologist)
And the countless nurses, PAs and therapists who helped in my treatment along the way. You will remain near and dear in my heart for as long as I live.
I also want to thank my husband Sean, my sister Kim (her husband Tristan), my parents Neil and Maureen, my mother-in-law Barbara as well as my beautiful children Zachary (his wife Erica), Zoey and Reichen.
I ride in honor of my father Neil, a brave oral cancer survivor who has battled a war these past five years I can only fathom. I used his bravery as a guide every single day. I also ride in honor of Jennifer, my best friend of 33 years, who was diagnosed with breast cancer a mere week before I was. And last but not least, I ride in memory of my brother-in-law Brian. He lost his courageous battle with aggressive T-Cell Lymphoma in early 2020. Rest in peace Bri. Your memory lives on.
Let's ride!
by Stacey Morrisey on Mon, Nov 06, 2023 @ 5:36 PM
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