Roxanne Mosley wanted to be a physical therapist.  But after learning that she had Stage IV breast cancer in September 2007, her plans changed.  “I already knew what it was before they told me on the phone. I did research on the internet and had dealt with my crying and my anger,” she recalls.  Not one to dwell on the negative, the former soldier and mother of three continued working her three jobs and began chemotherapy treatment. “You do what you have to do…I was able to keep it together because I have kids.”

Through her treatments, Roxanne became familiar with the American Cancer Society whose Patient Navigator - a United Way funded program - helps patients, families and caregivers navigate the various systems needed to manage their care.  But Roxanne was determined not to let her diagnosis or treatment slow her down.  “I’ve overcome a lot of things…I’m in survival mode all the time,” she shares.  But when her cancer returned in 2008, she finally decided to reach out for help.

From furnishing Roxanne with free wigs, to providing her with counseling services and transportation assistance, the American Cancer Society has been there for her every step of the way.  “I used to have this pride thing...if I needed something I would work a little harder, but now if I need help I ask for it.”  And while the American Cancer Society’s focus on survivorship is not lost on Roxanne, with their support, she has learned the importance of balancing work and recovery, and the dignity in accepting help when you need it most. 

Nevertheless, with plans to pursue a career in nursing - a field for which she feels well-suited due to her experience - she will always embody the spirit of what has come to be her chemo nurses’ favorite saying: “You can’t keep Roxanne down.”  And that’s just the way it is.

The American Cancer Society is a community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service. For more information, call 912.355.5196.

United Way of the Coastal Empire is a proud supporter of this program.  For information about how you can support programs such as this, call 912.651.7700 and thank you for helping your community to LIVE UNITED.