By Cindy Sloan

I am an (a)12-year breast cancer survivor.

I was diagnosed at the age of 37. I had a wonderful, supportive husband and a 15-year-old-son and 12-year-old daughter.

My prayer was to beat this disease and see them grow up. My son is now married to a wonderful women (woman), and I have one grandchild, Maddie.

Now, my prayer is to stay cancer free until she grows up.

I have many, many friends and acquaintances that have also been diagnosed with this. There are more than 17 women in my church who are survivors. I have worked diligently since 1998 to help raise money for Susan G. Komen Foundation and for the American Cancer Society. I have organized teams for both and have raised more than $60,000.

My dream is that one day there will be a cure for this disease and I can feel as though I had a part in the research.