Linda Gatewood

Gatewood said she cried uncontrollably when she was told she had breast cancer following a routine mammogram and follow-up ultrasound.

“At that point, I thought, ‘OK, my life is over,’ ” she said. “I’m thinking it’s a death sentence. I got really hysterical.”

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Gatewood called her daughter, who works for a doctor, and her daughter and sister helped her through the crises.

She opted for a lumpectomy, which went well, and said the follow-up radiation therapy was not nearly as bad as people have described.

Cancer free for three years, Gatewood is now participating in a study led by Kathleen Dwyer at the OU College of Nursing. The study is searching for new ways to help black women and their families who have been diagnosed with cancer. In late 2009, the research team expects to release a DVD that features stories from survivors and their families.

Information about the program can be obtained by calling Dwyer at the following number: (405) 271-1491, ext. 49223.

Words of Wisdom: “Cancer is not a death sentence. You can survive it ... In a way it’s made me a better person ... The Lord will sometimes allow things to happen to us to get to the place we need to be. I’m at that place. I’m very happy with my life right now.”

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