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Breast Cancer Survivor Finds Refreshed Creativity and Joy

Monday, July 17, 2023 at 11:22 AM

Leisa Phillips shared her story of surviving cancer and enjoying a rekindled passion.

Phillips appeared on KHOZ's "Around The Table" on Monday. Phillips was diagnosed with breast cancer despite not having it in her family. She said while people are at a higher risk of getting it if it is in their family, she said women who don't have a family history of it are "more likely" to have it.

However, she said her story has turned out well. Despite this, she said she knows not everyone survives cancer.

Phillips said she retired from teaching music in elementary school in 2018; she taught for 26 years. She soulfully recalled that she had plans to enjoy life and go hiking, traveling and do other activities.

"I was excited, and then about six months later, got the diagnosis that I had an aggressive form of [breast cancer]," Phillips said.

The cancer survivor said she had symptoms that she ignored for a time. She said ignoring them isn't good.

"I have a wonderful doctor, and she took one look at me and she...her face, just, yeah," she said. This occurred in 2019.

She described treatment as "overwhelming." She's going into her fifth year since her diagnosis.

One lesson she learned centered around having a support system. She and her daughter started a Facebook group. The followers in the group helped meet many of her needs.

"Don't be afraid to ask for help," Phillips said. This was a lesson she said she learned even though she struggled to ask for help at first.

She also stressed another lesson: be present in the moment. The retired teacher explained that though music became a joyless task, her cancer battle helped bring about a refreshed joy to be musician.

She and a friend formed a singing duo called "Bright Orchid." The musician is also working on writing projects. More was discussed on the broadcast.

The full interview with Phillips is on the "Around The Table" Facebook Page.

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