When we do our Buddy Check reports we hope to provide inspiration, information and support.  Sometimes that means telling you about new medical breakthroughs, other times it's about fun walks and unusual fundraisers. 
     It's always about a serious disease.  While that doesn't always mean a positive outcome, it can still mean a positive outlook.
     In tonight's Buddy Check Report we hear from Susan Booth.  I found her story so moving, I chose to let her tell it.  
   
     Susan Booth says, "I was diagnosed with stage 3 c breast cancer in November 2008 and March 2009 my breast cancer returned it is now a stage 4.  Right now my cancer is not curable.  So it's basically keeping a quality of life and keeping the cancer at bay for as long as we can.
     I've been the 4H leader at Casalae Farms which is a horse farm in Traverse City for the last couple of years.  They're passionate about what they do and I am so happy to be part of it.
      I've kept it very open Obviously when I lost my hair they all knew I was doing chemo and I didn't want them to be afraid.  I wanted them to know it's the same old Sue Booth even though I'm sick you don't have to be afraid to ask questions and i don't want you to feel uncomfortable around me.  Right now I take Tamoxifen, I've already done chemo and several radiations and surgeries.  The cancer has metastasized into bone and bone marrow.
      They decided last time I was in the hospital in March to create a foundation on the rail and sent my daughter and family to nationals.  They raised money through bake sales, raffles, auctions and you name it, they raised over $4,000 in 4 months, which was not easy.  It was a beautiful trip and created great memories for my family.
     I can't say enough about these kids.  They get it.  They give back to their community.  They're dedicated to their horses.  They're disciplined and they're just a wonderful group of kids.
     It does keep me going everyday.  That's exactly what it does.  If I can teach these kids one thing, it's no matter what, even in your darkest hour, you can give back and if they only take that away from this experience I think that's more important than anything.  If everybody could pay it forward it would make a huge difference, a huge difference.
     It is imperative to get your mammogram.  If they catch it early it is 100% curable. 
     Hopefully by some amazing grace I can beat this disease and if not live everyday to the fullest and enjoy my life, and that's what I am doing."