National Cancer Day: Finding Strength, Community, and Life After Cancer

At the Saratoga Regional YMCA, we believe healing doesn’t end when treatment does. Through programs like LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, we offer cancer survivors a supportive, welcoming space to regain strength, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with themselves and others who understand the journey.

Today, we are honored to share Sandy’s story in her own words. Her experience reflects the realities of loss and resilience, and the life‑changing power of community—reminding us why programs like LIVESTRONG exist.

Sandy’s Story

“Let me start by saying: cancer is a thief. It steals from you. For me, it first took my best friend, and then my own right lung, then my strength, and then my mind.

My best friend of 40 years, Barb, and I were both having trouble breathing. We each had a million reasons for what it could be, so neither of us had it checked out. A month later, she passed. My husband said, ‘Check your breathing out. Barb is not taking you with her.’

I went to Malta Medical next. I was sure I had bronchitis, or maybe pneumonia. But when the chest X-ray was finished, it was neither of those. My mind was completely confused when they did a CAT scan right then and there. One can never explain what these words do to you: ‘We think you have cancer.’ There’s that thief again.

After a whirlwind series of doctors and tests, it was confirmed. I – me, Sandy – had lung cancer. The thief, along with the doctors, took my right lung. Then I waited for the biopsy results, thinking to myself, what on earth could be next? Little did I know, the next thief would be arriving…12 weeks of chemo.

The first time I was asked to join LIVESTRONG, I declined. I just could not do it, and I was convinced of that. I told them I was not physically or emotionally ready for life. The second time, I reluctantly accepted…and my God, I am so glad I did.

LIVESTRONG has given me back a life. It didn’t bring back my old life, and it didn’t bring my best friend Barb back. But it gave me a new life. A strong life. An empowering life. An ‘I can do it’ life. A happy life once again.

I thank this program – and everyone in it – for the rest of this wonderful life I now have. LIVESTRONG put my thief away in a closet somewhere, buried with the ‘why me’ and the ‘I can’t.’

Did I mention LIVESTRONG gave me a group of friends that I hold deep in my heart? Friends I know will always be there – forever and ever.”

Thank you, Sandy, for sharing your story with such openness and grace. Your voice is a powerful reminder that no one has to walk this journey alone.

If you would like to learn more about the LIVESTRONG program at the Saratoga Regional YMCA, please visit SRYMCA.org or contact Tara Westervelt, Healthy Living Coordinator at tara.westervelt@srymca.org or 518-583-9622 ext. 161.