Mary Green

Q . Tell us a little about yourself and your lifestyle.

A. I grew up in the Midwest and have four sisters. We don't have any history of breast cancer in our family. I live in Clarendon Hills, IL, with my husband, John, and our four children--Mary Ellen, 13, John Michael, 10, Caroline and Meredith, 8-year-old twins. I am always busy, volunteering at school and in the community. I love golf, tennis and running. Last May, I started my own business in my home as a fashion consultant for Carlisle, an upscale clothing line based in New York.

I was diagnosed in September 1999, and the following year my girlfriend thought of raising money for breast cancer research through Bunco! We were all in bunco groups and I was done with my treatment and was ready to take on the charity. We named it Bunco For Breast Cancer, and started out grassroots, just word of mouth, in the Chicago area. That first year, we raised $30,000 from bunco groups donating their monthly pot for one month. Now, 4 years later, after newspaper and magazine articles, TV coverage and web networking, we have BFBC groups participating across the U.S. and all over the world (women in Turkey, Bangkok and the U.S. Embassy in Ankara have held BFBC events and sent donations!) We have raised more than $250,000 for breast cancer research through The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Q . Describe how you found your cancer, were you on 'watch' or did it sneak up on you?

A. I have always been good about check-ups and routine doctor appointments. I had been exercising regularly and was approaching my 40th birthday. I found the lump myself and immediately set up a doctor's appointment and an appointment with a surgeon. When they did an ultrasound and couldn't tell what the lump was, I decided to have it removed. The surgeon felt confident that the lump was benign and was shocked when pathology found cancer. My thoughts about turning 40 and celebrating turned into fear that I wouldn't be around for my four small children. My oncologist told me that I didn't have lymph node involvement, so 5 years of Tamoxifen would be enough treatment. I chose 6 months of chemo to lower my chances of recurrence.

Q . Following diagnosis, what helped you cope the most, and gave you strength?

A. I would have to say my husband and children. I was willing to do anything I had to do. They were so young and I was so scared. We are blessed to have our faith and such a loving family. Everyone stepped up to the plate. My sister Ellen took a leave of absence from her job to be with us during my surgery and recovery. My mother-in-law would come over for all appointments and chemo. It was so reassuring to have family staying with my children. We are also fortunate to live in a town where people really take care of each other. There were meals, prayers and so much support.

Q . How has breast cancer changed your outlook on life?

A. I certainly don't take anything for granted. I cherish my family and friendships more than ever. I feel that I now know what is important in life and I live in the moment. I take full advantage of every day and know that having a positive attitude can get you through anything.

Q . What advice would you give to someone who is newly diagnosed with breast cancer?

A. First and most important, talk to other women that have been through it! There were women in my town that gave me great information and support. Now, five years later, I am the survivor that newly diagnosed women can use as a resource. Always get a second opinion and educate yourself as much as possible. Finally, let friends and family take care of you.

Q . How has The Breast Cancer Research Foundation been helpful to you?

A. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation has been an amazing source of support and information. They have embraced my charity, Bunco For Breast Cancer, and we are aligned with BCRF to raise money for research. I encourage everyone that plays bunco to "Roll the Dice to Beat the Odds", and together we can find a cure!