Overcoming obstacles has nearly become second nature to Mary Jenkins. By the age of twenty five Mary had three children and was widowed. Not long after this she was diagnosed with Stage III Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer. After starting chemo Mary lost her job, was having a hard time making ends meet and faced eviction. Mary didn’t let all of these difficulties in her life “stop the plan God had for her in her life.” She bravely faced and overcame these hardships which led to the founding of Christians Overcoming Cancer.
Mary is now the President/CEO of Christians Overcoming Cancer and is helping others succeed on their road to recovery. She says that the result of her experiences “has made
it possible for me to withstand any storm.” It is this resilient attitude that she brings to COC. By providing emotional support, financial relief and education, the organization is able to lighten a heavy load for struggling cancer patients. On behalf of the organization Mary also actively fundraises and strives to bring awareness to the cause.
“I can honestly say that being diagnosed with cancer was one of the best things that could have happened to me. My life is all the better as a result of it.” Mary says. Not a typical attitude toward such a devastating situation, but Mary fully believes that she is now stronger than she has ever been. “I don’t think I ever would have
learned how strong I am and how passionate I am as a person had I not been diagnosed,” she goes on to say. Mary exemplifies strength and hope to those cancer patients she works with at Christians Overcoming Cancer.
Just as Mary supports others, she has a strong supports system as well. She has an unconditionally loving family, including three sons, Edwin, Joseph, and Jerry. According
to Mary, the organization has amazing board members and the best volunteers who make sure she can have some “Mary Time.” Mary is quick to admit that “without these people being there to cheer me on and get on me, I would not be the person I am today.” It is a daily confession of Mary’s that “God has great people ready to help me in the right way, at
the right time.” With the support Mary has received, her community has proven this true.
In the hopes of continuing to inspire, Mary encourages others to share their own stories of overcoming obstacles. Mary herself is inspired by those “who have taken life experiences and turned them into something positive to benefit others.”
For more information about Christians Overcoming Cancer, visit www.christiansovercomingcaner.com.