Read about Angela Stanford's experience with her Mom's breast cancer.
How would you describe your mom? And your relationship with your mom?
My mom is my best friend! She has worked hard her whole life and has raised our family. She showed me growing up that you can do it all!
What were your first thoughts when you found out your mom had breast cancer?
When I found out my mom had breast cancer, I was devastated. I couldn't believe it could happen to her. She has always been healthy, and I had a hard time understanding why. I still do.
What has people's responses been?
I have been blown away by people's responses. It seems like at every event fans are letting me know that they are praying for her and that they send their best wishes. It's amazing how great our fans are and how they can care so much for somebody they have or haven't met. It's pretty cool!
How has your mom's fight been going?
My mom has been fighting hard and she has good days and bad days. She has a few more chemo treatments and then surgery. The few days after each chemo treatment are the worst, but she gets through them. It makes the good days that much better.
How have you been affected by this? Has your play changed?
I think I was affected by this, and as much as I tried to not let it affect my play, I think it did for a while. I know my mom didn't want that to happen, so I was trying hard to keep things as normal as possible on the road. I think this would shake anybody, and I had to figure out how to deal with it and still play well because that's what she wanted. The saying might be true, if it doesn't kill you it makes you stronger. I think in the end, we will all be stronger.
How has the support been from other players on Tour?
The players on tour have been great. The first week I played again, everybody wanted to let me know they were thinking of my mom and everybody reached out. There are a few players who have been through this with their moms, and they were especially helpful and let me know they would help in any way possible.
Is there anything you want to say to people that might be going through this same type of thing?
I would tell anybody going through this a few things. First, pray. Prayer is a very strong thing and it gives you peace when things are completely out of your control. Two, let people help you. I'm pretty strong-willed and so is my mom, but at times like this, you have to let people help you. People want to help and it's nice to get the weight of the world off of your shoulders for a bit. Last, talk to people. Find out what others have gone through and how they dealt with everything. It makes you feel better knowing you're not the only one going through this.
Topics: Stanford, Angela
