The big debut... my story and... The Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation.

Its not something you ever think of becoming.  You see the newspaper stories, the tv news, the drama shows, and its a mighty tug on your heart to see the story of the mom with cancer.  The show Parenthood is the latest one to portray a storyline with Breast Cancer, starring Monica Potter as Kristina Braverman.  I sat riveted to the screen Tuesday night, watching her hear the news that even though the surgeon removed all of the cancer, she had lymph node involvement and she is HER2 +  which is more aggressive, so she will now have to go through chemotherapy.  They very aptly portrayed the conflicting emotions of being told "the cancer is gone, BUT, you will need the extra reassurance of chemotherapy.  Its not very reassuring at all.

I never expected to be "that woman."  "That mom."  But I am Kristina Braverman, and she is now me. (figuratively speaking- not literally.)

I'm still vague on the details of how they found me.  But last summer I was contacted by a production team from Los Angeles, that was working on behalf of the Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation.  They had heard about "my story" and wanted to know if I would be willing to share my story on camera.  They taped a discussion with me over the phone.  I sent pictures.  They had read my blog.  I finally sent them my all time favorite family photo taken by the uber talented Ria.   Within hours they officially asked to schedule a session with me.  Thank you Ria- pretty sure your talented work sealed it for them.

I had infusion the day of filming.  Another breast cancer survivor had offered the use of her house for taping.  I arrived nauseous and nervous.  It felt like I had entered the set of "The Real World." I felt compelled to share my story.  There were lights set up everywhere.  Producers everywhere.  The session was emotionally charged and somewhat intense.  It lasted for hours. I completely went "there."  I knew what I needed to say.  I knew what they needed me to say.  I was beyond vulnerable and you can hear it in my voice, read it in my face.  It's all very Hollywood- they are extremely good at what they do.

 I however, wondered if I had even said anything coherent at all.   

Last Friday, I was contacted by a representative from Edith Sanford to tell me they were re-launching their website with my story.  They will also be using some of my stuff for print media.  And after the first of the year, they will begin using my story in television spots.  

Last night after book club, I came home and Rick told me my story was up and running at the Edith Sanford website.

I was completely unprepared for the emotional punch it delivered.

In a bit I will link to it. 

But please let me explain something first.  

It brought tears to my eyes.  I somehow stepped outside of myself and watched with sheer raw emotion flowing through me.  It took me right back to that vulnerable place.

I said hard things.  And I know if its hard for me to hear and see, it may have that impact on YOU as well.  If you are at all sensitive, truly decide whether or not you want to watch.  Its raw and real.  

And if you do watch?

Please understand, I am doing really well right now.  What I portray here daily on my blog is truly me and what I choose to focus on.  And some things have changed.  The boys are coping as well as they can.  We all are.  The story is a snapshot of our daily existence. 

In the end, I am extremely grateful that I got to say what was on my heart and mind.  Everyone should have the chance just one time to tell their story.  How lucky for me, I got to tell a part of mine.  

The video can be found at the link below- I am wearing my wig, but you will see me right away. 

Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation