Cancer survivor source of hope, inspiration to others

As the finale for Saturday's Women's Expo, a woman who triumphed over great challenges was honored as the recipient of the inaugural Yuma's Inspirational Woman award.

The award was presented to Teresa Yreta by noted hairstylist Nick Chavez.

"The Yuma's Inspirational Woman award is designed to recognize the impact and power women have in our community to create hope, change and motivation for better living," said Machele Headington, co-chairwoman of the Women's Expo sponsored by Yuma Regional Medical Center and the Yuma chapter of American Business Women.

"Teresa exemplifies the true meaning of hope and kindness," Headington said. "She has taken a challenge and embraced it with such grace and forgiveness and used it to become a guide and mentor for others facing illness and challenge. We are honored to have this opportunity to recognize her for the hope she brings for so many others."

In 2004, at the age of 38, the single mother of three boys - two teenagers and a 6-year-old - found herself facing a mountain of challenges when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Determined to beat the odds, Yreta endured rounds of chemotherapy, radiation and multiple surgeries. However, those treatments took their toll, causing nerve damage and constant pain. The pain, coupled with a host of ongoing medical challenges, left her unable to work.

Weak, tired and desperate to take care of her family, she decided to take charge of her health. A friend referred her to oncologist Dr. Carl Myers, who suggested that she attend the Food for Life program. The program is hosted by YRMC and presented by Myers' wife, Jean.

Food for Life is a free, six-week nutrition and cooking class that teaches healthy eating for cancer prevention and survival by eliminating animal protein and eating more fruits, vegetables and grains. It was designed by physicians, nutritionists and registered dietitians to take advantage of the healing powers of food.

Just four years later, Yreta, a self-proclaimed “drive-thru” queen, is back to enjoying life – and through her story helped others, Chavez said in his presentation. "She has become a real source of hope and inspiration to other cancer patients and wakes each day to share her zest for life with others.

"She is a woman who, despite great challenges, has triumphed to a new horizon – with a focus on helping others," Chavez continued. "She has embarked on a journey that would have seemed impossible to some, yet through her deepest being has arrived at a place of gratefulness.

"Her message is one of simplicity: take time to enjoy the simple things in life. It is her core message that each of us can learn from: As a mom you must make time to care for yourself, because if you don't you reduce your chances of being here for your family later."


----
Joyce Lobeck can be reached at
jlobeck@yumasun.com or 539-6853.