Breast cancer survivor appreciates “new adventures”.
When Gloria McKinney was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 at the age of 46, the news was devastating. It marked the beginning of a difficult journey, but now that she’s cancer free, Gloria views the life-altering experience through an optimistic lens.
“Any type of cancer or major life-threatening illness makes you stop and look at your life, what is really important, and how you want to live. You learn to do what you can and decide to move forward with your eyes open,” she says. “I look forward to new adventures and enjoying the life that I have.”
This appreciation of new adventures prompted her to apply for Casting for Recovery, a nonprofit that strives to enhance the lives of women with breast cancer through a retreat program that combines peer support with the therapeutic sport of fly fishing.
Over the past few years, GE Appliances has made it possible for four employees — including Gloria, a principal design engineer — to attend the retreat, which takes place at a scenic retreat center in Henryville, Ind.
GEA’s involvement with the nonprofit began at the behest of Sharon Williams, an on-site physical therapist assistant at Appliance Park who also serves as local program coordinator for Casting for Recovery.
Why fly fishing?
For women who have had surgery or radiation as part of their treatment, the gentle motion of fly casting can be good physical therapy. Couple that with the emotional benefits of connecting with nature, and the result is powerful medicine.
“There are reasons fly fishing was chosen, but that’s not what it’s all about,” says Sharon. “These women take home lifelong friendships. They take home the knowledge that they’re not alone in this journey. It’s life-changing in that respect.”
Given GEA’s past support of breast cancer awareness efforts and commitment to health and wellbeing, Sharon says the company’s participation is a natural fit. Gloria concurs, adding, “I am very grateful for this opportunity and to have an employer who is interested in my wellness.”
Mammograms save lives
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to promoting research, education and early detection. To highlight the importance of screening for the disease, the third Friday of the month — Oct. 19, 2018, this year — is National Mammography Day.
According to Gloria, it’s a day worth celebrating, as a routine mammogram detected her breast cancer when she had no other symptoms. “There was no outward sign that I had cancer; no lump, no changes in my breast,” she says. It was a 3D mammogram and subsequent biopsy that “confirmed the big ‘C’” — and quite possibly saved her life.