Nancy Manning, a long-time volunteer for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 1990. After 17 years in remission, the cancer returned, meaning four more months of chemotherapy and a double mastectomy. Still in the healing process at the onset of 2009, Nancy shares her insights with LPGA Golf Clinics for Women on breast cancer, living life and teeing it up just for fun. 

How did you feel when you first heard the diagnosis? What was your initial reaction?
The first time I was angry that it hadn’t been picked up sooner (the doctor had been reluctant to do a biopsy for quite a long time).  Anger changed to resolve to do what needed to be done and get on with it. The second time I thought “Well, here we go again – hopefully they have made some great strides in 17 years.” Both times I was determined to be part of the decision making process and learn everything I needed to get through the treatment process.

How did your family and friends react?
Both times my friends have been absolutely wonderful…sympathetic but very supportive.

What treatment(s) did you undergo? How long were you in treatment?
The first time…lumpectomy, node resection, followed by 6 months of chemo therapy, 6 weeks of radiation treatment (chemo and radiation done at the same time) and Tamoxafin for 5 years. The second time 4 months of chemotherapy followed by a double mastectomy. I’m still in the healing process and on Aromasin.

What helped you get through the treatment? What gave you strength? When was it hardest?
My faith, a fabulous caregiver and the prayers and thoughts of wonderful friends.  The hardest part of both series of treatments was the extreme fatigue. The second time, the hair loss!

How long have you enjoyed the game of golf? When did you first start playing?
I have played golf for over 40 years. You’d think I’d be good at it by this time…but NOOO. I started playing in the early 60’s. Women weren’t too welcome on the course at that time, but time has changed all that.

What/who got you into golf?
My parents both played but I was more interested in team sports until my 20’s.  Then I “saw the light” and took up the game. Never regretted it as I have met some of the greatest people and have had the BEST times on the course.

How has your experience with breast cancer affected your play? 
The first time it made me settle down and not concern myself with the “competition” part of the game. I learned to just have fun. I have yet to see how this go-around will affect it. But it can’t get any worse!

Komen for the Cure is LPGA Golf Clinics for Women's charity. Share your thoughts on this relationship and what it means to women who participate in the LPGA Clinics.
The support of the LPGA Golf Clinics is invaluable, not only for the fund-raising aspect, but also for the opportunity for women to get together and connect on a personal level with those who have gone through it or are currently going through treatment and are “still in the game!”

Having survived breast cancer, what do you tell women in the early stages who may come to you for advice/support?
Take heart in all of the advances that have been made in treatment over the last decade. It is definitely a mountain to climb, but never lose sight of the fact that there is an end in sight and that there are literally thousands of people on your side. Share your journey with your friends – you will find that they are your greatest source of strength and love. You become a survivor the minute you are diagnosed...it is up to you to become a “Thriver.”

Have you participated in walks/fund-raisers for breast cancer? If so, briefly describe your experiences and what you got out of them.
I fully support and take part in the Komen Race for the Cure Twin Cities held in Minneapolis each Mothers’ Day. The sight of hundreds and hundreds of pink hats and survivor shirts along with the participation of thousands of friends and families is awe-inspiring. The fact that 75% of the money raised at the race stays right here in Minnesota (25% goes to Komen National) to support research, education, diagnosis and treatment for Minnesota women is a big motivator for me. 

What would you most like to do in the future?

• Live to 90…and shoot my age! 

• Stay involved and participate in life at every level.

• See the headline that says “Cure for Breast Cancer Found”!

Nancy lives in Minneapolis with her two Scottish Terriers and a great friend. She knows of no one else with cancer in her family tree.