Carol and Susan
Left to right: Susan and Carol
By Carol, a Sister Study participant from Wisconsin
As the oldest in a family of five children, I was nearly thirteen
when Susan the second youngest was born. She was a curly-haired
miracle, the apple of everyone’s eye.
My mother appreciated any help I could give her and when she offered
the choice between housework and caring for Susan, I chose Susan
every time. Somehow she survived fumbling diaper changes and shampoo
in her eyes.
She was four years old when I left for college and though my visits home were fun for us, we never lived in the same home full-time again. Later as my husband and I began raising our children and moving several times, Susan was attending college, teaching, then marrying, and starting her own family. Whether it was two or three years apart, when we did get together they were special occasions.
Susan was diagnosed with breast cancer several years ago. It felt wrong somehow that it should be my younger sister who would have this rather than me. I felt frustrated because she was in Ohio and I was in Wisconsin and there wasn’t a lot I could do. After undergoing surgery and radiation therapy, Susan has been in remission for the past eight years. She was able to return to her job while undergoing radiation therapy. Our family is so thankful for her recovery.
Three weeks ago I saw a brief paragraph in the Chicago Tribune, seeking volunteers for the sister study. I didn’t think twice. Finally there was something that I could do to join the fight. It’s called the Sister Study, referring to sisters related by blood. It’s such a good name because in a way all women are my sisters and I want health and life for all of us.
Doing my part in the study took commitment and time, but I was glad to be able to do it. It was interesting and an enjoyable process, because I was making an important contribution. I hope those of you who are considering being in the study will give yourself that gift.