Type of Cancer: Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

"I knew that I needed to fight this battle and win because I had three very important little people at home that needed me and I wanted to see them grow up," says Sharon Grove.  She was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma seven years ago, just weeks after her third child was born.  Sharon says that because she fought cancer, she was able to spend more time with her children, and she grew closer to God, her family and her friends.  "I believe it did change everyone around me in a positive way!" 

Type of Cancer: Breast Cancer

"I'm a huge believer in mammograms," says Laurie Kalda.  "Do not skip them!"  Laurie is a champion of early detection because back in 2000, her doctor caught the tumor in her breast at an early stage.  The fact that she lost a sister to kidney cancer because the cancer had spread so far by the time her sister was diagnosed only fuels her desire to spread the message of early detection.  Being an oncology nurse at the Avera Cancer Institute, Laurie says, "I feel I have somewhat of a bond with my patients now."  

Age: 26

Type of Cancer: Hodgkin's Lymphoma (in remission as of 3/2008)

"I never thought I would be diagnosed with cancer at the age of 23," says Annie Johnson, who fought Hodgkin's lymphoma for two and a half years.  "It brought a harsh perspective to life-that's for sure." 

Annie was deemed terminal with just a few months to live in 2007, but between her doctor who fought for her, lifestyle changes, and her faith in Christ, she made it through and is now in remission. 

She got her little yorkie, Sampson, as a gift last year.  "He lifted my spirits on days when I was so sick, I thought the world was going to end," says Annie.  "My friends used to stash him in a big purse so he could come visit me in the hospital.  How great is that!" 

Type of Cancer: Uterine Cancer, Colon Cancer

If anyone knows about cancer, it's Lois Perrine; she's been through both uterine and colon cancers!  Lois is so thankful for early detection because that's how both cancers were discovered-with a routine physical and with a routine colonoscopy.  "The American Cancer Society made such a difference as there was always someone to answer my many questions and reassure me that I was not alone," says Lois.  She also jokes that she talked with God so much, she imagined him saying, "Oh no, not Lois again!"

Age: 32

Type of Cancer: Breast Cancer

Erin Stahlecker has been surviving breast cancer since October of last year.  "Treatment is that hardest thing I've ever done," says Erin, "but I'm getting through it with the support of my family."  Erin also tapped into resources in the American Cancer Society.  She received support from the American Cancer Society Patient Navigator, as well as information, transportation assistance, and two beautiful wigs.  Erin's advice for other patients?  "Keep a positive attitude, but also remember that it's okay to cry."  

Age: 24

Type of Cancer: Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)

"It is so hard to not have control of your own life: how you feel, act and what happens to you," says Megan Swier.  She fought leukemia at 17 years old, and is so grateful that she had a wonderful support system around her.  "I had such an amazing amount of faith and strength through the whole experience and I knew that if I put my life into God's hands, it would work out the way He meant it to be.  Now I am a survivor!" says Megan.  "This is a great way to let others know that people do make it and end up having a great life."  

Type of Cancer: Breast Cancer

A few years ago, personal trainer and group fitness supervisor at the Avera McKennan Fitness Center, Karri Stearns, was in excellent health. At least that's what everyone thought. Until a routine, annual mammogram turned up something suspicious.

Karri's physician wanted to get a better look, so she had a diagnostic mammogram. Even the possibility of having breast cancer creates an emotional state of shock. Karri and her mother were distraught and on edge. When the radiologist recommended a biopsy, Karri still felt that is couldn't be happening to her.

Read Karri's story

Type of Cancer: Lymphoma

When asked her age, Irene Rezac of Sioux Falls used to jokingly answer "39 and holding!" Now when birthdays come around, she doesn't mind telling anyone how old she is. "I'm just so thankful to be here." For the past five years, she has also celebrated her "second birthday" - Aug. 20, 2003, the date of her stem cell transplant to treat a recurrence of lymphoma. She credits the care of physicians at Avera Hematology and Transplant, along with the prayers of many, "which made a world of difference."

Read Irene's story

Type of Cancer: Leukemia

My wife Sherry was diagnosed with leukemia in February and received a bone marrow transplant in July. For the past few months she's been receiving treatments and working on getting stronger. The doctors told me that being with Sherry would be beneficial to her treatment, but I was concerned about our living situation since we live over two hours away.

We were told about the Walsh Family Village and were put in contact with social workers to begin the eligibility process. I can honestly say that it's been absolutely wonderful having a home-like atmosphere, yet still be able to walk to the clinic for treatments. The staff is so caring, and we appreciate having other people in similar situations to talk and socialize with.

It's also great having a kitchen, laundry facilities and convenient campus location wihtin walking distance so we can save money. We are so appreciative of the Walsh Family Village and being able to stay together as a family during this time.