Thriving Through Trials

An Interview with Jean Ward

By Pastor Brad Heintz

Recently I had an inspiring chat with my “adopted” mom, Jean Ward, and how she has thrived through the tests and trials of her life. I pray that by reading this interview, you are inspired to thrive through your own trials.

What were your cancer battles and what choices did you make?

I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000. Two years later I was diagnosed with colon cancer. In 2016, I was diagnosed a second time with breast cancer. I had a choice in the beginning for a total mastectomy or radiation and possibly chemotherapy. After many prayers and thoughts, my decision was to do a total.

I’m not saying that we thought it would absolutely be the answer, but we were hoping that it would be. After the surgery, the lymph nodes came back clear. So, I did not have to do any more treatments. I did the same thing with the second diagnosis.

How long have you been clear of cancer?

I have been clear of cancer for five years. I just completed a physical with my oncologist. All my blood work came out good and the chest x-ray was clear. So, I am on the road again! I see my doctor every six months and take medication as she prescribes.

By the way, I did get tested regularly before my first diagnosis of breast cancer, starting at forty, which was a long time ago. I was 70 years old when I was first diagnosed. I think that every woman, should get an annual mammogram and follow-up as your doctor advises.

Was there anything in your decision process that made your choice very clear?

Yes, it was my prayers to God that made my choice clear. I believe God told me, “Yes, it is your decision, Jean. I will be with you whatever you decide.” So, I made my decision and it turned out to be the good thing. The first time I went in for surgery, I shall never forget the feeling I had. I never had any kind of strenuous surgery before. All by myself and lying on that gurney, I had this calmness that came about me. It was a feeling that everything’s fine…and it was!

How important is community in fighting with cancer?

Of course, with God, my family and friends, it was easier to make it through. Cancer is a dreaded disease, but it isn’t the end. I have known cases where people didn’t get the support needed. When a woman who loses a breast, she needs the support of her husband, family and friends because that is a sensitive thing which can affect us emotionally.

Once you lose it, you realize it wasn’t that important, but the time you have it, it is. Having a full mastectomy was actually challenging for me, but I learned from it. Once you learn the lesson, it’s like going to school: If you get an “A” it’s just wonderful. If you get an “F” it’s not so good.

Speaking of support can you share what you are doing?

Shortly after I had my first surgery in 2000, we began “The Bosom Buddies” organization which is a support group for women who need relational and practical support. Our Bosom Buddies group still meets once a month and helps anyone who needs it. We are also a part of “Pampered Pink” which has emerged as a great, local support organization helping women and men with breast cancer over the last twelve years (http://www.pamperedpinkbayarea. com).

What I love is that Pampered Pink is local. So often we contribute and don’t see where the money goes, but with Pampered Pink we can see a lady smile with bright eyes when she receives the support she needs.

What are your closing thoughts?

Live each day to the fullest and love God forever!

Pastor Brad Heintz is the founding pastor of Living Word Church in Taylor Lake Village, Texas, a vibrant family-style, non-denominational gathering of believers who take a pure, simple and real approach to faith and life. www.LWCBA.org

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October 8-10, 2021

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