The Survivors Nest

My name is April Smith, I was 34 years old when I was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer June 17,​​ 2013. The diagnosis caught

me by surprise, it was my understanding that I was too

young to have breast cancer, nor did I have an immediate family history. Well after 17 rounds of chemotherapy, 30 days of daily radiation, a year of hormone treatment and a double mastectomy, I'm CANCER-FREE!

Prior to my diagnosis I took life day by day; caring for my family, continuing my education, and spending time with friends and family as time permits. I was preparing to embark on a new phase of life as my youngest daughter was in her senior year of high school and preparing for college. I had both of my daughters when I was in high school. We grew up together, which depleted my chance of having a normal teenage life. My husband and I was starting to get excited about emptying the nest and living the “young empty nester life”. Caught off guard and to our surprise, cancer entered our life. Yes, I had the “Woe It’s Me”, and “Why Me?” syndrome. I went into denial and refused treatment for several months with attempts to healing holistically. My body didn’t respond to my self-developed holistic plan, in fact the cancer had begun to spread causing pain, insomnia, and rashes throughout my body. I eventually built up the nerves and strength to see an oncologist and started treatment. I mentally prepared my mind to go to WAR and to come out VICTORIOUS! I’m so grateful for my husband; the days I wanted to throw in the towel and have a pity party, he wasn’t having it. He was there to remind me that I can and will OVERCOME cancer.

I've learned so much about myself and others along my cancer journey. Although I’m CANCER-FREE, the fight continues, not only for myself but for individuals who are still in the fight.

The Survivors Nest

The Survivor’s Nest Inc. is an inclusive organization with a mission to uplift, inspire and empower the breast cancer community. We understand the importance of providing encouragement and support in the life of others; especially those who are facing obstacles.

Traditional cancer treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy causes an array of side effects. The side effects prohibits the way someone would function daily. With proper nutrition and exercise many side effects can be reduced, in many cases eliminated.

The Survivor's Nest promotes mental and physical health during and beyond breast cancer treatment.

During cancer treatment we provide support and resources to help breast cancer patients with proper nutrition. Nutrition is a process in which food is taken in and used by the body for growth, to keep the body healthy, and to replace tissue. Good nutrition is important for good health. Eating the right kinds of foods before, during, and after cancer treatment can help the patient feel better and stay stronger. A healthy diet includes eating and drinking enough of the foods and liquids that have important nutrients (vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, fat, and water) the body needs.

We also promote physical exercise and resources to help patients stay fit and healthy during and after treatment. Research has shown that exercise is not only safe and possible during cancer treatment, but it can improve how well you function physically and your quality of life.

Too much rest can lead to loss of body function, muscle weakness, and reduced range of motion. So today, many cancer care teams are urging their patients to be as physically active as possible during cancer treatment. Many people are learning about the advantages of being physically active after treatment, too.

A growing number of studies have looked at the impact of physical activity on cancer recurrence and long-term survival. (Cancer recurrence is cancer that comes back after treatment.) Exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, body composition, fatigue, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, happiness, and several quality of life factors in cancer survivors. At least 20 studies of people with breast, colorectal, prostate, and ovarian cancer have suggested that physically active cancer survivors have a lower risk of cancer recurrence and improved survival compared with those who are inactive. Randomized clinical trials are still needed to better define the impact of exercise on such outcomes.

Over the last 2 years, we have raised funds to assist patients with living a healthy lifestyle such as, gym membership, healthy food, and personal care. Partnering with the Survivor’s Nest will help us continue our mission. ​

Many women faced with cancer may need financial support or resources to maintain or start a healthy lifestyle due to excessive medical bills. ​

The Survivors Nest provides direct support to women and men impacted by breast cancer. Direct support includes financial and emotional support.

TSN will help relieve stress for patients facing an immediate financial need as a direct or indirect result of their breast cancer treatment. Money is applied towards a holistic approach to healing such as gym membership, massages, acupuncture, healthy groceries, natural herbs, spa days, post surgery/treatment, and similar expenses.

It is our mission to assist survivors with living a happy and fulfilling life during and after treatment. This holistic approach will compliment their current treatment plan to promote overall wellness.

With a high level of compassion and a strong desire to inspire, The Survivor's Nest Inc. was created.

Original post date, September 20th