Myra C. Harris is the President/Founder of Cancer Gave Me Life Foundation, Inc. (CGML) – based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She brings a personal perspective to her Foundation's mission, after being diagnosed with Stage 2B – Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in June 2020 – during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Myra has experienced four months of chemotherapy, a bilateral mastectomy with both nipples removed, emergency surgery from a hematoma, 30 rounds of radiation, three reconstructive surgeries (one of which was 9.5 hours), along with many side effects – all while still working full-time. Myra has also been blessed during her journey, as she has received two promotions – an Assistant Vice President in September 2021 and a Vice President in April 2023. Myra states “I didn’t tell my colleagues about having breast cancer, as I didn’t want them to feel sorry for me or think that I couldn’t perform my job.” I stayed focused and didn’t allow the thought of having breast cancer, have that type of power/control over my life and livelihood.
While still on her breast cancer journey and in between reconstructive surgeries, she started CGML because she cares about people. Myra was by herself during chemotherapy treatments and multiple surgeries. She stated “just knowing that no one could be there in person to support me during the hardest battle of my life was indescribable and a feeling I wouldn’t want any person to endure.”
She also partnered with the Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center Foundation in August 2022, and was able to donate Love Bags during the Christmas holiday to 250 Myra C. Harris breast cancer patents at the Novant Cancer Institute and sick children at the Novant Hembry Children’s Hospital with the help of the City of Charlotte Fire Department. It was a major success and the patents, staff and Novant’s team are stll thanking her. In 2023, Myra implemented a new initatve, “Myra Cares”, which will grant wishes for breast cancer patents (18 and over) whose life expectancy is 12 months or less. This initatve’s focus is to help patents find peace and closure with the blessing of a final wish, while creatng precious memories with their loved ones – however, this program is contngent on funding.
However, through it all, Myra believed and had faith in God that there were new possibilities coming her way and wanted to share her joy with other cancer patents. She wants them to know that there can be a tomorrow, but while you’re on your journey, let’s make it a little brighter.
Myra’s new motto is "Cancer Gave Me Life", as it gave her patence, perseverance and resilience. Stay strong and encouraged, of course with God’s mercy and grace!!! And, please don’t give up!!!
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Photos by: M. Council Photography | Denise Benson Photography