Linda Hunt of Purcell has good reason to celebrate.
The 53-year-old who works part-time at Jo’s Famous Pizza was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005.
She sought care at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Tulsa.
On September 13, she was among more than 150 cancer survivors who gathered at Tulsa’s Southwestern Regional Medical Center to mark their five-year milestones at a “Celebrate Life” event.
“This year’s event theme was ‘Living the Moments,’” said Steve Mackin, CTCA chief operating officer. “It was a celebration of the special moments these cancer survivors have been able to experience and enjoy since being diagnosed with cancer.
“Whether it’s seeing his or her child get married or becoming a grandparent for the first time, it’s these incredible moments that we want to celebrate.”
Currently, Hunt’s cancer is in remission, giving even more meaning to her recent recognition in Tulsa to see her five-year milestone leaf added to CTCA’s “Survivor Tree.”
“I had a mastectomy at a hospital near home early on,” Hunt said.
But feeling “something was not right,” her father recommended Hunt contact Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
“From the moment I arrived at CTCA, I felt like each staff member and doctor was personally caring for only me,” said Hunt. “I was in bed only a couple of days a month while on my most intense treatment.
“My experience there was awesome…I don’t really have words to describe it. I call all the staff there ‘my angels.’”
Now active and feeling good, Hunt stays very busy. When not working, she often makes treats like peanut brittle and travels twice a month to Binger to spend time with her grand kids.
She also camps at Fort Cobb Lake with her husband of 34 years, David.
They often camp with their extended family, though Hunt notes there are “no tents for me.”
So when not enjoying the comforts of their RV, she relaxes by the water, watches the kids fish and builds bonfires.
Since this year’s “Celebrate Life” theme was “Living the Moments,” Hunt reflected on the most significant moments she has experienced over the past five years.
“The birth of my first grandson really pulled me through the early time after my diagnosis,” she said. “Getting to watch him grow and welcoming my grand baby girl two years ago have been treasured times.
“I know it has meant the world for my daughters to have me here with them too.”
Hunt added that she gives thanks to her husband and sister-in-law, Theresa Hunt, for their support during her surgeries and treatments. Many friends and David Hunt’s 11 sisters and brothers, along with the First Assembly Church of Purcell were her prayer warriors.
The regional “Celebrate Life” event included a tree planting ceremony and white dove release in the courtyard of the hospital.
The names of celebrants were added to brass leaves on the “Survivor Tree” in the hospital’s lobby.
Hunt especially loved the “confetti release” during the weekend’s activities.
Following the outdoor ceremony, the five-year survivors and their caregivers participated in “Hope Rounds.”
During this special time, celebrants received commemorative lapel pins – one for themselves and one to share in an encouraging way as a symbolic transfer of hope to patients currently undergoing treatment inside the hospital.
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A life worth celebrating
Author:The Purcell Register ComeFrom:The Purcell Register Date:2013/10/18 3:24:35 Hits:1486
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