By Connie Anderson
I have been a supporter of the “Relay for Life” fight for the cure cancer research for many years. I have spent numerous nights pounding the track and raising money to help others who battle this disease.  It was only in the last year that it really became personal. I shifted from fighting for a cure to praying for a cure.  On February 7, 2012, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This last year has been an interesting, faith building journey.  A journey I am sure the Lord is not done writing. NOT because I feel that cancer is in my future, but because I know it is in my past and I pray that God will use it to bring glory to Himself.
When asked to write this article, I hesitated. Because in doing so, I never want any credit to come to me. Let me be clear in saying that “I” didn’t beat cancer. My only part in any of this has been that I surrendered cancer to the One who can/did beat it.
Last year during the Relay for Life events, I wasn’t physically able to participate due to chemotherapy treatments, but my heart was there supporting every step taken around that track.
In my place were my daughter, my family and my church family, Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. They went out there, rallied hard and braved the nasty weather to raise money.  It was incredibly special because I knew that this time they were all doing it for me.  I smile as I think about how different this year will be.
Oh, Mt. Calvary will certainly be there, only this time, I will be with them, and I will be relaying for those of you who can’t come because you are in the middle of your journey with cancer.  Isn’t it the greatest that God has a plan for each of us?  His plans are always greater than ours and He can take any circumstance and turn it into a blessing.  
He allows things in our lives to enable us to be what He has called us to be and to bring glory and honor unto Himself.  The way I see it, any journey WITH God is worth traveling regardless of the circumstances or the outcome.  God is just good like that.
That being said, I look forward to seeing all of you at the track!