The Last Post of 2012 from Tigerlily's Latina!

My fourth year as a Volunteer with the Tigerlily Foundation is fast approaching in less than a month.  I am so blessed to have discovered Tigerlily when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer.  I am now a 4 year survivor.  Maimah and I immediately made a connection, and I have been supporting the mission of Tigerlily ever since. 

The Funds for Families Program provides financial assistance to young women who are actively in chemotherapy treatment. Often, families don’t anticipate or plan for crises such as breast cancer. Being able to help provide a service for other young women who apply for this program is so rewarding.  A phone call or an email that says "Yes, we can help" truly lifts their spirits and takes away some of the stress for them and their families.

I also assist The Chemotherapy Buddy Program, which provides a breast cancer patient with a “buddy” throughout treatment.  The Program is spreading nationally. It’s amazing for me to be able to connect young women with breast cancer to each other.  A young woman from Texas recently connected with another survivor from South Carolina.  They were experiencing the same bilateral mastectomy surgery, and they were able to share their experiences with one another and feel comforted while going this difficult and scary procedure. I was able to listen to her needs and make that match. They have been in contact now for over 5 months!

In 2013, my new years resolution is to be an even bigger cheerleader for the Tigerlily Foundation.

Have a Happy New Year!

Latina Starling

ChemoBuddy Program Manager and Funds For Families Coordinator