Littleton Firefighter Foundation - Donation Recipients

Kathi Christ

I often tell people that getting cancer was the best and worst thing that has ever happened to me. It was the best thing because it made me appreciate the little things in life like, good friends, times spent with my daughter and family, sunshine, a smile, that being bald isn't so bad, being healthy is so important and so many other things. I learned that you should always keep a great attitude and that so many others fight this horrible disease everyday and that I don't have it as bad as most. I am thankful for what I have and thankful that I get up everyday and get to see my daughter.

In February of 2003 at the age of 39 I was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. I was healthy and it took me totally by surprise. I found a lump in my breast the month before and luckily my doctors decided to send me thru the multiple series of test to determine that it was in fact cancer. This is where the worst comes in. I was lucky, I had good insurance but even good insurance doesn't cover everything. I had a surgeon, an oncologist and a plastic surgeon. I saw each of these doctors in the beginning at least once or twice a week. I had eight chemotherapy cycles, each costing approximately $6000.00. I also had surgery and reconstructive surgery. Needless to say, expenses were adding up. I finished up with everything in November of 2003 and had hoped that 2004 would bring a new and better me. I had several bills that accrued so I began to pay them off. Well, luck was not on my side and on December 23, 2004 I found out that my cancer had now gone to my bones. I was told that I was no longer curable but containable. I would have a "new" way of life and that the cancer center would be my second home.

My employer advised that they needed to "cut back" the employee's health benefits and so in 2005 we would be on a 90/10. They pay 90% and I pay 10%. OUCH!!!!

I have been so blessed to have worked in my job for over 16 years. I have met so many wonderful people. The Littleton Fire Fighters are my second family. When I needed sick time, they graciously gave. They came to see me in the hospital, sent me cards and flowers and always welcomed me in any fire station as one of their own. Now, they have graciously come to me again and want to help me with my medical expenses thru the Littleton Fire Fighters Foundation.

If I could offer any advice it would be to be the best person you can, love unconditionally, never take things for granted and always know that somewhere someone needs your help and support. Remember that because it's in times of need when we should all shine through. GOD Bless the Littleton Fire Fighters Foundation and thank you to all who give and continue to keep giving.