Meet Sandi McCool

Tell us about yourself.
Former surgical RN. Married to Alan, a urologist. Love to swim, dance, and spend time with family and friends and 8-year-old Springer Spaniel, Chloe.

When were you diagnosed?
Initially on Alan's Birthday, July 22, 2004, Stage 2. Chemo, lumpectomy and radiation. Recurrence in June 2007, Stage 4 with metastasis to lungs, spine rib and hip. This was all cleared with chemo. Then a recurrence in my liver and chest lymph nodes. Essentially been having surgery, radiation or chemo for the past three years and beating the odds daily.

How has cancer changed your outlook on life?
I try to remember that there is always someone that has it worse than I do. Even when I feel my worst, there is someone that is still having to work, take care of a family, struggle with transportation and/or bills with cancer that doesn't have the amazing support system that I have been so fortunate to have.

What words of encouragement would you share with others with cancer?
Buckle up for a roller coaster of emotions and physical changes, but it can be treated and doesn't mean your life is done. It's actually a new beginning in a sisterhood that will forever be there to help you.

Support this non-profit in honor of Sandi: 
Champions of Hope race through the Southeast Alabama Medical Center Foundation, samcfoundation.org
I helped the race in 2007. We have doubled in size every year with the race in October for breast cancer awareness. All the profits stay local mainly funding a local mobile mammogram unit.
Please support those battling breast cancer by donating.