Terrie is our model for our 2008 Reserve Chardonnay. December 21st, 2004 . . . . Terrie was diagnosed with breast cancer The radiologist “had a feeling” and wanted more testing. Terrie had gone for her annual mammogram. She worked in the radiology department of her hospital. She and the mammography technician had seen the film from her test. Nothing looked suspicious. To satisfy the radiologist, additional mammography shots were taken from other angles. An ultrasound was performed. The films were inconclusive. Finally, a bilateral MRI was done of both breasts. A cancerous mass was discovered. “I felt numb when I read the faxed report of my tests. I saw if before the radiologist. I did not need anyone to explain this to me.” offers Terrie. “When you receive this type of news, your head spins and it’s difficult to think coherently. My initial thoughts of disbelief quickly turned to wondering how I would tell my daughter and my family. When that fog cleared, I went into all out war mode. My mindset became such that this cancer would not beat me.”
Just 2-months prior to her diagnosis, Terrie’s sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. Terrie had been the one to give her the news. Terrie had seen her sister’s medical journey first hand as well as that of countless hospital patients whom she had attended. Now it was her turn to go down that all too familiar path.
Working in a hospital, Terrie had the advantage of knowing many people in the medical world. She did her research about treatment options. She consulted all the experts at her disposal. A medical course was mapped out for her to deal with her breast cancer. Terrie had a mastectomy. She did not undergo radiation or chemo therapy treatments. She also had tram flap reconstruction, a procedure where muscle, fat and skin from the abdomen are used to create a new breast mound. Two subsequent revision surgeries were necessitated on the cancerous breast. It was a long, drawn out, painful medical ordeal.
“After my recovery from all of these procedures, I decided to be proactive with my health. I had a second mastectomy. It also required two follow-up revision surgeries. I did not make this decision lightly. My family, friends, and breast cancer support group rallied around me, offering comfort and counsel. My daughter, who is my heart, supported me completely. I was at peace with this difficult decision. I looked at this as part of the battle I was willing to fight to beat breast cancer. Nobody ever said it would be easy, but I know it would be worth it in the end. I had to do all that I could to win this war.”
Following all of her surgeries and medical procedures, Terrie dedicated herself to maintaining a healthy lifestyle regime.
“I have a regular exercise schedule that I stick to. My diet is something I watch closely. I try to maintain balance. I believe that keeping a positive attitude is imperative to good health. I try to surround myself with positive people. I certainly know the importance of keeping the little bumps of life in perspective. I really work at taking things one day at a time and cherishing each moment. We’re not guaranteed tomorrow. I don’t take anything for granted and I thank my Creator every day for all of my blessings. Dealing with breast cancer was a horrible experience but I emerged a more positive, appreciative person. I am thankful for the incredible people I have in my life. They are my angels. My life is blessed and I know it.” About TerrieTerrie enjoys her life in Nevada. Spending time with her daughter is a favorite pastime. She enjoys designing and creating jewelry, crocheting, and sewing. Photography is an ongoing hobby as well as researching her Native American Blackfoot ancestry. She is active with the ladies in her breast cancer support group where she helps to organize events and fund raisers.
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Women of CC 