Hi my name is Sandra Potts I am a single mom with a beautiful daughter Andrea Bowden and stomach Cancer Survivor. I received the dreaded phone call at work on December 13,2012 and I was told that my test results were back and I have stomach cancer and that I would have to have most if not all of my stomach removed, at that moment my world stopped and I couldn’t breathe. My first thought was how I am going to go home and tell my only child I have cancer.
My role in life has been the caregiver not someone who needs taking care of. I didn’t even know how to ask for help, let alone receive help. I was completely out of my element so I put on my brave face and continued life as usual.
I thank God that worked for a wonderful boss Jon Miller and co-workers (Andrew Hill and Milind Naik). They supported me and carried me at work while I had additional testing done and waiting to have my surgery.
On February 5, 2013, I had 85 % of my stomach was removed and approximately 150+ lymph nodes. I later learned that the cancer was detected in the lymph nodes. My 6-8 weeks off work is now 6-8 months Chemotherapy and Chemotherapy/Radiation.
My coworkers contacted my daughter to check in on her and ask what they could do or if either of us needed anything. They got together with other coworker and employees and gave me a wonderful care package that contained all of the products and more that were recommended during my treatment (Aloe, sunblock, hand sanitizer, gloves, facemask, etc) alone with a kindle fire and gift cards to help me get new clothes.
Receiving that care packages touched my heart. Words cannot express the gratitude, love, support, care, and compassion I felt. It touched my heart that there were so many people that loved and cared about me.
I thank the Lord for keeping me and allowing me to feel the love and care I received from my friends, family, and people that only knew my name that supported me during my journey.
I expressed to my daughter I wish everyone no matter what kind of cancer they have could know and feel the joy, love and support I felt when I received my Care Package. I want to give back by giving them a care package as an expression of love letting them know they are not alone.