Breast cancer survivor Wanda Tooker gives to CSCNT in honor of her mother, who died suddenly from a late-stage cancer. She uses the inheritance she received from her parents for CSCNT gifts as a meaningful way to utilize these funds. Wanda’s first gift to CSCNT was during North Texas Giving Day 2024.
“Donations to CSCNT go further than just the person who has cancer,” Wanda says. “It also helps their families. Everyone who receives help can then support others in similar circumstances. The impact grows and is significant.”
Along with becoming a donor, Wanda also has participated in CSCNT’s Living with Cancer and Life After Treatment support groups. She is in remission from breast cancer.
“With a new cancer diagnosis, people supported us, but eventually, most walked away,” Wanda shares. “CSCNT stays with you throughout the whole cancer journey.”
Going from the current treatment to post-treatment support groups, Wanda says CSCNT helps her answer, “I had cancer. Now what?” and to accept her “new normal.” There also are the yearly tests to check whether the cancer has returned, which gives Wanda and many cancer survivors like her anxiety – making the Life After Treatment support group essential.
Wanda’s group members have a tight bond and connect with each other outside of group. If she has a medical test coming up, she’ll receive at least three texts saying they hope it goes well.
While family members mean well, Wanda says they don’t always know what to say or how to react. She feels like she can be more open in CSCNT support groups. She also is encouraged by group members who are living well years after their initial cancer diagnosis.
“I recommend anyone with a cancer diagnosis to try out the support groups,” Wanda says. “You might need to share things that are difficult, but know that people will understand the hard times that you’re going through in a way that people without cancer cannot.”