Bretzing, Claudia: - "I am a wife, mother, grandmother and a stage 3 breast cancer survivor. When I was diagnosed, it was a shock to discover that the small change in the appearance of my breast was actually hormone receptor positive breast cancer. One day I was fine, and in one small moment, my entire life changed course. My book is titled The Cancer Effect for a reason. Besides the obvious physical effects of cancer, I was forced to face the emotional, spiritual and mental effects no one tells you about. But there are also positive effects - the Cancer community is one of the most giving, loving, supportive group of people I've ever known. If there's one cancer effect I'm grateful for, it's the people I've come to know through this journey. When I began writing this book, I wrote with the intention of helping others who were diagnosed with cancer. That is still my hope, but writing has come with an unexpected bonus. As I allowed myself to gradually open and scrutinize my complex emotions, I achieved personal healing. I hope it helps others do the same. On a more personal note, I've been married to the love of my life, the best companion and support I could ever have along this journey, for 43 years. We have six children, and sixteen grandchildren, so far! Through Randy's service in the Air Force, we have lived throughout the country and in Germany. One of my fondest memories is performing as a member of the BYU Philharmonic Orchestra as a violinist. I love to do crafts and sew gifts for my family. I live in Arizona but love to travel and visit my far-flung family. Being with them is my greatest joy."