Survivor Stories 2014:
Alisa Savoretti
1. How did you first find out you had cancer?
I was working on a new business, sequestered in a small apartment, and just discovered it by myself. I got the call at 8am preparing to leave town.
2. How did you react when you heard the news?
I didn’t believe it was true. Of course wanted another opinion and then just had to face the facts… I had cancer.
3. What course of treatment were you prescribed?
I had a single mastectomy and 8 rounds of chemo.
4. What most surprised you about your treatment?
My mother said I had a nice round cranium 😉
5. What would your advice be to anyone who’s just received a cancer diagnosis?
Don’t think the worst! Take one day at a time. Not every cancer journey is difficult one. Think positive thoughts, watch comedy on TV and know, “this too shall pass.” You will survive! The survival rate is near 90%, no longer the epidemic it was. And for many, incorporate eastern alternative therapies like acupuncture – it helps eliminate nausea and gives energy during treatment to many.
6. How long have you been cancer free?
This year will be 12.
7. What lessons did you learn from the experience?
Well, it changed my life because I started My Hope Chest, a nonprofit organization that helps uninsured and under-insured survivors pay for breast reconstruction. I have also learned that there are many generous and caring people in the worked and I have a HUGE respect for the oncology nurses…what angels they are!
8. If you could send one message to all the Good Enough Mothers out there – what would it be?
Love you as you are! Take time for yourself every week and tell yourself everyday, “I AM amazing!”
As the reason for forming My Hope Chest in 2003, Alisa Savoretti stated, “I didn’t choose the charity, it chose me,” believing it is her calling, having had to live without her breast in her 30s for nearly 3 years because she lacked the means for reconstruction. In 2005, Alisa let go of her e-commerce business she created before cancer and focused her attention on My Hope Chest. Alisa believes in her mission and has dedicated her life to healing all women who desire breast reconstruction.
