My name is Cheryl Owens Patterson. I am a wife, mother, sister, employee, friend, parishioner and Stage 4 cancer patient. I told my very personal story at the encouragement (some would say insistence) of those who love me in the hope that my life and journey will be a source of encouragement for the countless women, families and friends who daily fight this battle. I reside in New Jersey with my husband and my dog, and I have two grown sons.

While I continue to fight this battle, I have chosen to live life to the fullest. I overcame my fear of water, at the age of 44, by learning how to swim and now it is part of my weekly routine. I overcame my fear of heights and jumped out of a plane, also at the age of 44, just because I could. It was amazingly fun! Recently I went to Italy with my three best friends and had a blast. Check out my blog for photos (I have recently disabled my blog for the simple reason that I have been too lazy and busy to keep it updated. Sorry!).

My latest scan showed a 100% improvement, evidencing no trace of cancer in my body! Since being classified as Stage 4 in September of 2005, this is the first time they can't see any evidence of the cancer. It's amazing and miraculous. I recently began receiving Intravenous Vitamin therapy (mostly Vitamin C) and I believe this really helped with this vast improvement. I believe God led me to take this pathway of life, and am so grateful to Him for his faithfulness.

Thank you to my family and friends for your prayers and encouragement. I could never walk this pathway alone. I recently left my job with my local school district and will be beginning a new life adventure. I don't know what God has in store for me, but I'm really excited about the possibilities. I'll keep you all updated.

Please feel free to contact me, add a comment or at least let me know what you are facing. No guarantees that I'll respond to everyone, but I'll do my best. Thanks for visiting!