January 12, 2009
Posted by: Donna Fischer

Project Athena Introduces Next Athenaship Recipient

“I will never forget September 2001: Not only was I mourning the loss of my firefighting brothers and sisters in the terrorist attacks on the twin towers; I was waiting to find out if I had a life threatening disease: breast cancer. I was dealing with all sorts of emotions. How would this impact my career as a firefighter? As my fellow firefighters and I awaited the call to ground zero, I received the dreaded news and my reality became the fact that I had my own ground zero to fight right here, inside my own body. Little did I know that I was to embark on a journey of reinventing myself along the way, physically, mentally and spiritually…redefining myself as a whole.

 Surrender to whatever it takes, even twice. Life is about survival. What does that mean? Then it happens…28 years old, aggressive breast cancer, given less than 50% chance of survival. Best shape of my life, a firefighter, gym owner. Breast caner, not a death sentence! My second chance at life, OK let’s fight. 4 years cancer free, almost to 5…the magic number. Recurrence, 33 years old! My worst fear becomes reality. Death sentence…NO WAY. 3rd chance at life. WHATEVER IT TAKES…COURAGE!”

 About Project Athena: Project Athena is a nonprofit foundation that encourages women to not just survive - but also go on to STRIVE after enduring life-altering yet life-affirming medical conditions. Project Athena provides coaching, equipment, travel expenses, entry fees and, most importantly, encouragement and inspiration for women who desire to unleash the athlete within and strive for the goal of a lifetime - whether that be to hike the Grand Canyon, cross the finish line of an Ironman Triathlon, or fall into the arms of a proud family at the end of a local 5K. Donations toward Project Athena can be made on the Project Athena website.   www.ProjectAthena.org
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