A letter from Lindsey’s mother, Debbie Adams.
Dear All,
I want to start off by saying thank you. Thank you, first and foremost to Lorie. Her spirit and love will be with us forever. Secondly, I want to thank everyone who has supported our, Survivors’ Circle program. Through Survivors’ Circle we were fortunate enough to meet a woman like Lorie, and learn her story.
I received a text at dawn the morning Lorie passed and could not find words that would be worthy to describe my feelings. I didn't have the opportunity to know Lorie as well as so many of her loved ones did, but she has made a lasting impression on my life and will live in my heart forever. Her spirit has shown us the way for difficult times, her faith will strengthen us in weakness and her smile will always lift us when we see her face. There was no fear and no doubt that she didn't overcome, she was ready for eternal life.
Please enjoy Lorie's answers to our Survivors' Circle questions. Even a stranger will be able to feel her strength.
In memory of Lorie Anne Rupe Lord send contributions to:
The Lorie Lord Breast Cancer Foundation
P.O. Box 521147
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74152-1147
Thank you and God Bless you in your journey,
Debbie Adams
 Lorie Lord: Tulsa, OK
When were you diagnosed, what action did you take, where were you treated?
I was originally diagnosed in 2000, with a re-occurrence in 2005. In 2000 I had a mastectomy with reconstruction, then chemotherapy. In 2005 I went through chemotherapy two different times, starting about a year apart.
What does breast cancer mean to you?
It changes the way you think about everything. The thoughts and emotions that occur are evolving as you learn to cope and deal with the disease.
How important is it to you to raise awareness of breast cancer?
Extremely important. Without a doubt, the earlier you detect it the better the chances of survival and the lower the risk of re-occurrence.
Are you excited to be one of our featured survivors?
Absolutely! I feel so honored to be a part of something so important in caring for others.
Please tell us a little bit about the battle that you fought for breast cancer. What is the best thing that has happened to you because of breast cancer?
In the past seven (almost 8 years) it has definitely been a struggle to find the optimistic side to this illness at times. However, it has definitely gotten easier. Something my sister said to me (Thank God for sisters!) was a big help because of course you can’t help but worry about dying from the disease. She told me that anyone of us could die at any moment in some type of accident. Also, prayer and faith has helped me considerably. I have occasional moments or a day or two of worry (around the time to get a scan), but for the most part I am at peace. The most important thing that has happened to me because of breast cancer is that I enjoy everything at every moment and I live in the moment not worrying about tomorrow.
Please tell us a little bit about where you are in your life now!
I am 43, married, and the mother of three children. I have a daughter, Ashley (16), and two sons, Chase (12) and Hunter (9). I take care of things at home and do not work outside the home at this time. We like to travel, go to the lake, and spend a lot of time carpooling and attending our children’s sporting events.
Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you along the way?
My entire family! (Mother, Father, Sister, Brother, Aunts, Uncles and cousins) Every one of them has been very supportive! But, most importantly my husband and children for always helping out more than they might otherwise and for the love and support they’ve shown.
Are there any quotes, verses, or inspiring thoughts that you have lived by through this process that you would like to share?
Psalm 118:24 – This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
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