Fight Cancer. Make Time. > Julie Turner
Julie Turner’s world was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with stage III Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at age 17. Instead of meeting new friends and taking classes on a college campus, she was receiving treatment at the most advanced cancer care center in her area. Reflecting on that time in her life, Julie remembers the strength and support of her family — especially her mother — that eventually carried her through to recovery.
“My mother came into my hospital room every day and either kindly encouraged me or demanded vigorously, ‘Be strong, be brave — do it for me Julie,’ she would say,” Julie said. “Mom was the best caregiver a person could have. She would repeat over and over that hope is a major tool of empowerment to awaken your heart to miracles, where the impossible becomes possible.”
Forty-eight years later, Julie considers herself one of the lucky ones. She left cancer in her past and forged ahead to accomplish her dreams. She graduated with two degrees and began what would become a 36-year career as a public school chief financial officer. Julie also adopted a daughter, Jodie, which she says was the best decision of her life.
It wasn’t until a friend was diagnosed with cancer in 1996 that Julie became involved with cancer advocacy. She joined his Relay for Life team and was asked to join a special survivor lap while wearing a symbolic badge of her own past with the disease — her purple survivor shirt. In that moment, she was hooked. She’s fundraised for Relay for Life and walked the opening lap every year since.
Relay for Life opened the door to more opportunities to volunteer with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. From sharing her story of hope with other cancer patients to convincing lawmakers to invest in cancer research — which Julie says saved her life — on Capitol Hill, Julie believes she survived so she can use her voice for others.
“Sharing my cancer journey with others gives hope for life after cancer,” she said. “I no longer wonder if I will be remembered. Sharing my story and volunteering for cancer patients will leave my legacy of hope, courage and perseverance.”
Of all her accomplishments in life, Julie views more time with her daughter, and now two granddaughters, as priceless. And at age 53, Julie met the love of her life, Chuck. She is eternally grateful for the cancer research and treatment at age 17 that enabled her to adopt her daughter, meet her grandchildren and eventually marry the love of her life. All the moments throughout her journey brought her to these people and memories.
Julie’s survival comes back to the unwavering love and support from her mother, who she sadly lost to cancer in 2007. Julie takes advantage of each extra day she’s been given to spend time with her loved ones, inspire other cancer patients, and fight for a cure.
“I forge on with my advocacy efforts to honor my mom’s battle,” Julie said. “I know she is looking down on me with the widest smile and pride in her heart.”