“Don’t throw yourself a pity party,” recommends Crystal Slaughter. “Do things that make you laugh.”

Crystal remembers the “pity party” she experienced in 2004, when she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. She struggled to find any support groups for cancer survivors; she remembers hearing about various groups online but would go to meeting sites only to find that the meeting had been cancelled or the group had dissolved. It was very discouraging for her and she complained about her difficulties to her doctors at Methodist during her appointment.

It turns out that telling her doctor was exactly what she needed to do, because they were able to introduce Crystal to Stephanie Koraleski, who was working for Methodist at the time. She and Kay Ryan had just started a Time to Heal and Crystal was able to join their second Survivorship class ever, in the winter of 2006.

Crystal welcomed the camaraderie, journaling, meditation and opportunities to learn and share provided by A Time to Heal. She describes this program as life-transforming, especially in empowering her to develop healthier habits. Crystal started physical fitness classes at Methodist around the same time. “At first, I said, ‘No way. I never, ever exercise,’” Crystal admits. Soon she found the strength to say, “Yes, I can do this…and more!” She remembers the group fondly and still recommends the program to other survivors even years later.

Crystal also found the support she needed from her family and faith. She is a North Omaha native and graduate of Tech High School. Her siblings, nieces and nephews were living in Omaha at the time and formed her support system at home. “Surround yourself with positive people.” Crystal advises. “Their positive energy is so important, especially when you find yourself giving up.”

Crystal has been cancer free for 16 years! She retired in 2018 from the Metropolitan Utilities District after 32 years of service and still lives here in Omaha.

When asked what advice she had for other survivors, Crystal said to never give up. Never give up on yourself and hold onto things that make you smile.

Thank you, Crystal, for sharing your cancer story. We’re so happy that A Time to Heal could be a part of your journey.

If you’d like to make A Time to Heal part of your journey as well, Survivorship 101 class registration is now open! New classes start every month and we would love to help you. Learn more and register for our FREE classes here: https://atimetohealfoundation.org/survivorship-101/.