Three-time Cancer Survivor on a Mission to Uplift Others?
张译丹不雅视频流出
Standing at just 5 feet 1 inch tall, Carol Johnson-Cromer is a force of nature, radiating energy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to lifting up others. A three-time breast cancer survivor, she was first diagnosed in 2000 at age 38 and faced breast cancer again in 2019 and 2023.?
Dealing with Cancer Diagnoses
Her first encounter with cancer was found less than a month after her yearly gynecological appointment when she felt a lump in her left breast. Her doctor quickly set up a plan of action, and Carol underwent a core biopsy. A short time later, her doctor confirmed it was breast cancer.??
Carol underwent a radical lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation, along with taking Tamoxifen. But almost 20 years later, she felt another lump in the same breast. After having been in remission for nearly two decades, and now armed with more to give to family, community, and life, she decided to undergo a double mastectomy. Carol said she felt a sense of urgency to move forward with her recovery journey, and her determination quieted many of her fears during this time.??
Cancer was still not through with Carol. Four years later, she found another lump on the right side of her neck and was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Carol embraces a new normal, a lifelong treatment for cancer.??
For Carol, the constant support of her son, Alray, has been her source of strength, getting her through each round of recurrence and treatment.??
“Alray is my biggest advocate. When I was first diagnosed in 2000, he was eight years old. The mere presence of my son, knowing he depended on me, inspired and encouraged me to live and survive,” she said.??
Despite her uphill climb, she dug deep within to pull through.???
“The challenge every time is maintaining a positive mindset, focusing on the body by exercising in the midst of exhaustion, and embracing one’s spirit by waking up every day ready to breathe life and light into every person, place, or thing,” she said.
I always tell survivors my personal motto: to live, laugh, love and laugh some more.
Giving Back
Through it all, the three-time breast cancer survivor has made community service a priority, dedicating her time and energy to the American Cancer Society. One initiative that is close to her heart is VOICES of Black Women, a groundbreaking study that aims to better understand cancer and other health conditions among Black women. Results from this study will help inform how to improve the health of Black women for generations to come. Carol serves as a VOICES of Black Women ambassador, working to meet the study’s goal of enrolling 100,000 Black women.?
"The VOICES study is an opportunity to raise awareness, make a difference in our health and wellness, and keep hope alive,” she said.
For more than two decades, Carol has participated in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of the Hudson Valley. In 2024, she served as the Ambassador for the event, raising awareness, encouraging participation, and fundraising to support breast cancer research and programs. At both the walk and kickoff breakfast, Carol served as the survivor speaker.?
“Community service keeps me engaged. Engaging is empowering, and empowering others is empowering,” said Carol, who is a 63-year educator in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District in New York.??
Carol's colleagues have supported her throughout her cancer journey.?
"I'm further inspired, and strengthened by my colleagues who continue to honor, support and raise awareness of the disease."
When Carol counsels other cancer survivors, she encourages them to “pursue your dreams, fulfill your purpose, and adjust to your new normal.”??
For Carol, maintaining a sense of humor has been essential during her cancer journey.?
“I always tell survivors my personal motto: to live, laugh, love and laugh some more,” she said.
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Reviewed by the American Cancer Society communications team.