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Breast cancer survivor hopes to save lives through Dream Makers Foundation

Next week, Tishie Anderson and the Dream Makers Foundation will be holding their first fundraiser. A pancake brunch will be held on Sunday, Oct. 1 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Notre Dame High School in Fairfield.

News 12 Staff and Nicole Alarcon Soares

Sep 23, 2023, 4:54 PM

Updated 437 days ago

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In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a Bridgeport woman shared her battle with the illness for the first time.
Tishie Anderson, 54, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 and says it had a devastating impact on both her mind and body.
Anderson says the effects of radiation can change someone forever.
"That was traumatizing to me because I always wondered, am I ever going to look the way I used to look?" says Anderson.
She says all women 40 and older should get mammograms and advised women of all ages to do self-exams.
In 2021, her cancer begun to spread, resulting in a total hysterectomy.
Anderson says she also had to undergo surgery to have one of her lungs removed.
She says her source of strength to keep fighting came from her children and grandchildren.
"So, I just focus on today and every morning when I get up and say my prayers and thank God that I'm seeing another day and just take that day as it comes," said Anderson.
Anderson says her experience inspired her to start giving back to the community.
Next week, Anderson and the Dream Makers Foundation will be holding their first fundraiser. A pancake brunch will be held on Sunday, Oct. 1 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Notre Dame High School in Fairfield.
Proceeds will help the foundation create life-changing experiences and grant wishes to patients.