Gently, he asked if I was okay. The words, “breast cancer” and “awaiting more test results” tumbled out of my mouth. I couldn’t believe I was telling a stranger about my fear.

I was not the valedictorian of my high school graduating class. When I received my diploma 50 years ago, I was an average student with perfect attendance - I knew how to show up. You might wonder what a 1976 Tate graduate could have in common with you. Well, once upon a time, I was you; anticipating life and the freedom of adulthood. In school, I was assigned books to help me understand the world, prepare for my future, and dream big.