"My Personal Hero" by Julia Joblinski 3rd place essay contest

 When I read the word hero, I at first thought of some World War I veteran, or maybe a real famous person that you want to be when you grow up. But then I thought of my cousin, Donna Bruck. 

Donna was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago. It runs in the family. Grandpa Joblinski had it and Aunt Rose (Donna's mother) had it. Donna thought she was too young to have this type of cancer, she was only twenty-four years old.  Once she was diagnosed, she never gave up hope. 

She has an amazing courage that outshines almost everybody I know. She had o have a mastectomy and chemotherapy treatments. All of her hair fell out because of the chemo.  It finally grew back in, and I remember how excited she was to finally be able to put a barrette in her hair after the treatments were over. 

She has used her experience in fighting and overcoming the cancer to help others that have been diagnosed with this dreaded disease.  She is now the coordinator of an organization that aids cancer patients in Monroe, Michigan, called the Cancer Care Connection.  She helps cancer patients get what they need, like their medication, chemotherapy, and other ever-day needs. Donna also talks with different groups about getting through breast cancer.

I got the inspiration for this essay when Donna was on a TV show called "The View." Being on national TV is scary enough, but having to talk about her personal feelings in fighting breast cancer gave me so much more respect for being the brave and courageous person that she is.

I knw that she could overcome her cancer because of her faith that God would help her be strong during her battle.  I am very thankful that God heard and answered all of our family's prayed and has cured Donna. I am also thankful that I have such a strong role model in my family.