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CNN Fit Nation: 2013 Triathlon Challenge
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Sisters Fighting Breast Cancer
Hello, my name is Christine Alberico. I am 46yrs old and I live in Atlanta, Ga. 14 months ago my sister, Sheryl, and I embarked on an emotional, mental and physical journey. At the age of 39, my sister was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer. After she found out that she was Brca2 positive her simple lumpectomy surgery now became a double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery, followed by 4 months of chemo and then a partial hysterectomy. A week before Thanksgiving, I found out that I also carried the Brca2 genetic mutation. I did not have cancer, but I chose to follow her path and have a double mastectomy, reconstructive breast surgery and a full hysterectomy. As a matter of fact, I am 4 weeks postoperative from my second breast reconstructive surgery. As you can imagine this has been a roller coaster ride in all aspects of our lives. It scares me that this mutated gene is beating me down. I feel it is consuming my life and my families. I have two boys 11 and 13 and they have seen their mother sick more often than not. I used to be a positive, active, vibrant person and I think that person is slipping away. I am depressed a lot, I’m eating unhealthy and I can’t exercise most of the time. At this point all I’m allowed to do is walk and I don’t even feel like doing that! I need some inspiration in my life. I want my boys and husband to see that happy person again. I want my boys to know that no matter what life throws at you…you can always pick yourself up and thrive. And if you can’t do it yourself then ask for help . It’s ok to ask for help and that is what I’m doing right now. Please help me to be inspired and to inspire my boys, husband, family and friends. I keep talking about my sister and the reason is…I have a request…I would love for my sister and I to embark on a new journey and that is to be picked for this awe inspiring challenge. I know it is a lot to ask because we would be taking 2 of the lucky 7 positions. Also, I know I may not be a candidate because I have done sprint triathlons, although not very well because I don’t know how to swim freestyle and I have never swam in an ocean. So, if we can’t both be involved please pick her. She has been through a lot more than I have and if you ever wanted someone to be inspired by…she is your gal. She will be doing her own recording…so look out for Sheryl Alberico! Thank you for your time and consideration.
All the best.
Christine Alberico
All the best.
Christine Alberico
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