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Breast Cancer Survivor 'Sews' Support For Others

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FORT BRAGG — As doctors care for women diagnosed with breast cancer, a remarkable group of volunteers are helping lift their spirits. "I was diagnosed with breast cancer in July of 1987, so it will be 14 years this summer," says Donna Sollers, a breast cancer survivor.

Sollers volunteers her time in the mammography department of Fort Bragg'sWomack ArmyHospital.

"Some of us laugh and say we are here to show and tell -- show that we have survived and tell about our experience. Just give the gals that come in encouragement," she says.

One quiet way Sollers provides hope to patients is through a quilt that hangs at the hospital. Each stitch is a sign of patience to show patients someone cares.

"The quilt that hangs in the mammography department, it took me about 100 hours. I had lots of time to think about the ladies, and all of their stories that they shared with me," she says.

The life of a military wife can be a lonely one, moving to new places and not knowing who you can lean on while you wait for news of your medical future.

Donna Sollers does not let anyone go through this alone.

"Give me a call and tell me how things turned out. You can call me and holler, 'Yippee! I'm OK," and I will holler 'Yippee' right along with them. You can call and say 'It is what I feared.'"

Sollers had cancer cut out of her body, but says it will always be sewn into her life.

"It is just kind of a mothering thing to just reach out and take a hand, pat a shoulder, give a hug, wipe a tear, or wipe a lot of tears, mine and theirs too," she says.

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