‘Gave me strength to live life'

Jeff Trester of Overland Park, Kansas, calls his wife, a breast cancer survivor, his hero.

“My wife Susan Pham is my HERO. She was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. She eats healthy, doesn’t smoke or drink, but got sick with cancer anyway. Once she found out, she started to prepare by making herself pink hospital pajamas with Velcro so she could dress herself. She is a very strong and independent woman and has been a supporter of helping breast cancer victims even before she got sick.

“This is the picture of her that I look at every day. I also keep a pink piece of material from her hospital pajamas in my work ID badge holder. It inspires me to be strong and do what needs to be done.

“She went through many surgeries and doctors’ appointments, and the entire time she never once cried or felt sorry for herself. She didn’t tell anyone or ask for help in any way, even though this was a very hard time for her. She helped me be strong for her. Even I had to go into a different room and cry sometimes. Heck, I am even crying typing this.

“She then went back to work two weeks after her last surgery because we needed the money and never complained once. Some days when I don’t want to go work, I think about her and man up.

“She has kicked its ass and is 100 percent free and clear.

“I pray to God every day that her cancer never comes back.

“I love you, baby. You are my light and strength and will always be there for you.”