V & P Community Magazine Special Edition - Angel Fighter's

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Special Edition October 2021

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Angel Fighters www.vandpmediaproductions.com



CONTENTS Featuring the Angel Fighters Tia Jackson

4

Tiffany Nicole

8

Talyea Nycole

12

Vicki Russell Walton

16

Karen McConnell-Jones

22

Glenda Cousar

26

Debbie Ann Andrews

30

Michelle Theresa Higgs

34

Louise Battle

38

Devay Tarchelle Campbell

41

Special Edition October 2021

Editor-In-Chief Karen McConnell-Jones Director of Graphics & Design Krystal Glenn Photographer Dominique Massaquoi

V&P Community Magazine Special Edition| 3


Tia A.Jackson


Friendly, Faithful, Organized

Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighters and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: So, tell us what do you want our readers to know about you?

Tia A. Jackson (TAJ): I am a giving person that wants to be blessed by being a blessing. I continually use the gifts and talents God has given me to support my church, my family, and the work I do for my clients and coworkers. I am always willing to share my experiences in hoping that it may help others in their journeys. I pride myself for building strong relationships that are rewarding and beneficial in our walks of life. VPCM: When learning of your diagnosis that you have breast cancer what were your real emotions at the time and how did you prepare yourself? TAJ: I was shocked and numb at that very moment. This disease is not in my family history, so I was perplexed trying to understand why it happened to me. I then went into business mode and began taking a lot of notes and organizing the information that was provided to me. This then allowed me to be calm through the treatment process because I was able to go back to my notes to see that what is happening to me was already shared with me in the beginning. VPCM: What does Angel Fighter mean to you? V&P Community Magazine Special Edition| 5


TAJ: I’m a fighter that is an angel to help others get through what I’ve been through. VPCM: How did you use your Angel Fighter skillset to be VICTORIOUS in your fight? TAJ: A smart fighter is a knowledgeable fighter. I used my ability to determine what’s authoritative information and what’s not and did my research so that when I’m being told something it’s simply validation to what I’ve already known. VPCM: After your experience how do you give back to help support others who is fighting breast cancer and to be a positive voice in the community? TAJ: I allow God to speak to me on when it is time to share my story with someone and in turn it end up being just what they needed to hear when they needed to hear it. VPCM: We know that healthcare is very important to your treatment process, what are some improvements that healthcare providers could make to help you through your journey with breast cancer? TAJ: Once treatment is completed, I think more follow up in the years to come would be helpful for a survivor. VPCM: What are some tips you can share with the oncology team that could be beneficial to their patients? TAJ: Just continue to be a good human being. Show love, compassion, and understanding. VPCM: After your experience with fighting breast cancer what is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? TAJ: Stay faithful, stay happy, stay stress free, and appreciate every day you are alive.

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Tiffany Nicole

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Strong-willed,Faithful, Grateful Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighters and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: What do you want our readers to know about you? Tiffany Nicole (TN): I want the readers to know that I am a woman that has overcome a fight that was meant to break me so I live to inspire the next woman. Despite what they are going through, they are beautiful, and worthy of being here. I had to constantly remind myself of this. With every obstacle that was placed in front of me my trust and faith in God got me through it, it created my will to want to live. VPCM: When learning of your diagnosis that you have breast cancer what were your real emotions at the time and how did you prepare yourself? TN: When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, my immediate reaction was sadness but it opened my eyes to something much bigger. From that point forward I knew that I had to fight to live for my girls, so that they can know me, like really know me and experience the love I have for them as my daughters. VPCM: What does Angel Fighter means to you? TN: An angel fighter is a person that knows who they are and aligned spiritually in their faith and their actions. They trust in God and he gives them everything they need to fight their battles and help others in the course of hardships they may be facing.

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VPCM: How did you use your Angel Fighter skillset to be VICTORIOUS in your fight? TN: I use my angel fighter skillset by allowing God to use me as a weapon on Earth to encourage and educate others that I meet during my journey. God has given me the strength to fight this battle and I work to inspire the next woman to stand tall and fight in their journey. VPCM: After your experience how do you give back to help support others who is fighting breast cancer and to be a positive voice in the community? TN: My experience fighting breast cancer has taught me that what’s on paper has nothing to do with God’s will. With each diagnosis I was given, I chose to live rather than to suffer. Therefore, I support women enduring this journey by uplifting and inspiring them in every moment I can, to not allow cancer to stop them from living to enjoy every moment and to simply live, love, and laugh. Yes this battle had physical hardships but it's mental, a strong minded woman can get through anything, God is with you always. VPCM: We know that healthcare is very important to your treatment process, what are some improvements that healthcare providers could make to help you through your journey with breast cancer? TN: I have been blessed to have a team that has educated not only me but my eldest daughter/caregiver from the very beginning. They listen and find whatever I need to make this journey better by continuously finding resources to help not only myself but also my family. So if your provider isn't making you feel comfortable on your journey, get a new one.

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VPCM: What are some tips you can share with the oncology team that could be beneficial to their patients? TN: I would tell my oncology team to continue to see us as women, mothers, daughters, and sisters. My worst fear when I was diagnosed Stage 4 was that I would be treated like a number, that I would receive treatment for a while and then told there was nothing else that could be done. However it was the exact opposite, my doctor operated in my best interest and explained everything to not only me but also to my daughter until we were comfortable and knowledgeable of the steps ahead of us. VPCM: After your experience with fighting breast cancer what is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? TN: My secret sauce to living a purposeful life is having a positive mindset every day. If God allows me to open my eyes, I'm going to make sure I show Him how much I want to be here and inspire the next person to do the same. My journey has been an emotional roller coaster but I never lost sight of God and because of that I'm able to shine my light onto so many people and be a living testimony for those unsure of their next steps.


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Talyea Nycole

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Determined, Protective, Responsible

Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighters and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: What do you want our readers to know about you? Talyea Nycole (TN): I want the readers to know that I am the eldest daughter of a five time cancer survivor. She has fought this fight many times and it is never ending but, my mother is strong willed and she holds her head high to God. She has given me the strength to not only chase my dreams but, inspire young women who are treading in my footsteps. I have been there and through sickness and in health, you are worthy of everything you desire. VPCM: When you learned of your family member's diagnosis of having breast cancer, what were your real emotions at the time and how did you prepare yourself to become their caregiver? TN: When learning of my mother’s diagnosis, I was 14. I was scared and all I knew was that I was going to lose my mother. I was distraught, hurt even, I questioned why God would ever let this happen to her, to me, to us. I gave myself sometime to really feel those emotions in its depth and then I tucked it all away.

As my grandma would say, I put my big girl panties on and I stood tall in my role as a big sister, as my mother’s caregiver, as a first generation college graduate (Summa Cum Laude), and most importantly, a young woman devoted to God. Yes, over the years, I have achieved many accolades but this journey was not easy at all, I didn’t expect to become my mother’s sole caregiver and a second parent to my sisters so abruptly but, God prepared us for this fight and I never questioned him since. VPCM: What does Angel Fighter mean to you? TN: To me, an angel fighter is a person battling a tough battle and God is carrying them through. It’s the battles that are known about but unspoken of. The battles that are meant to break a person but, the angel fighter graciously fights their way through. It’s because they’re covered by God, no battle, big or small could compare to what God will carry them through. V&P Community Magazine Special Edition | 13


VPCM: How do you use your knowledge as a caregiver to be a supporter to the Angel Fighters and to be a positive voice in the community? TN: : I use my knowledge as a caregiver to nurture, to comfort, to protect, and to educate women younger and older than me fighting this battle, and also my sisters standing in my same position of being strong on the outside but frail on the inside. My mother instilled some of these qualities into me prior to her diagnosis but, since then, I have used them more and more not only to be a positive voice in the community but, by being a positive role model to my younger sisters. Over the years, I have seen people come in and go out of our lives, because of that sense of loneliness; I make it my mission to always be there for those that need me. Even before my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, I supported anything breast cancer related from donations to walks. I use my voice in the community by telling my story to those willing to listen and inspiring those who are scared and unsure of where to go. This fight is one that has broken up so many families from the beginning of time; women going through this need support that is more personable than money, which are simply guidance and a listening ear. VPCM: What are some changes that you would like to see from the healthcare providers that can be beneficial to caregivers and their family member who is fighting cancer? TN: Healthcare is very important in the treatment process of breast cancer; my mom has been blessed with a team very devoted to doing what is best for her. Her providers are beyond personable and they have gone to extreme measures ensuring that we understood what was going on every step of the way. So, providers outside there aspire to be medically professional but also understand and personable, never stop researching, and always innovate to make sure the patient and their families are comfortable. VPCM: As a caregiver what are some tips you can share with other caregivers who just learned of their love one diagnosis with cancer?

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TN: As a caregiver, or better yet as a daughter, I have tried my best to take the weight off of my mother’s shoulders. Whether it is cooking dinner, doing my sister’s hair, driving them for their errands and activities, or administering her medicine, I do things that she doesn’t have to think twice about doing. This fight is strenuous enough, I really just try to be there for my mom in all the ways that she needs me and I truly listen to what she wants and what she needs. I didn't choose this lifestyle but, I wouldn’t have it any other way. My mother being diagnosed and having myself take care of her brought us so much closer and it made her stay true to her word, to fight and to live for her daughters each and every day. VPCM: What is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? TN: My secret sauce to living a purposeful life is simply knowing that you want something and truly working towards it despite all odds. Yes, the road will be tough; you’ll be pushed down and bruised in ways you’d never imagine however, that’s what makes the story. I’ve lived by the scripture Proverbs 3:5-6 for as long as I could remember. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Where there’s a will, when you stand true in your purpose, God will prepare you and make a way, that’s the secret to this smile my mom and I wear despite the rocky road we’ve been on.



Vicki Russell Walton

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VPCM: After your experience how do you give back to help support others who is fighting breast cancer and to be a positive voice in the community? VRW: I tell all of my business, with my husband’s permission (lol) I share because someone needs to know what I know. If they don't ask, because of pride, they will have the information needed to be successful and to pay the rent, to purchase groceries, to find a support group, anything to assist with life difficulties. Also, get assistance with creating yourself again: bra’s, wigs, make-up, and makeovers, care repairs. I share all information! As we should all do. VPCM: We know that healthcare is very important to your treatment process, what are some improvements that healthcare providers could make to help you through your journey with breast cancer? VRW: To assist all with their journals, a few things. I know with the pandemic, normally no one is allowed to be with you during procedures or at the doctor’s office. It’s a cold and lonely place waiting for results in the back room, maybe a care package or a caregiver to console that person. Also, there should be a video of survivors sharing their stories, lower the treatment cost, and FIND A CURE! VPCM: What are some tips you can share with the oncology team that could be beneficial to their patients? VRW: Please stop telling us that you have done this treatment, procedures, surgery a million times - it’s our first ( for most of us) and it a terrifying time. So, let’s act like I am a new patient and let’s have compassion for this situation. Your bedside manner often sets the tone for the conversation for the room so let’s be positive, be understanding, and listen with compassion. VPCM: After your experience with fighting breast cancer what is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? VRW: PRAYER!!!!! I ask God for everything; guidance, patients, understanding, resources and all of my help. I have a wonderful supportive husband, two handsome energetic sons, a huge loving family - I lean on them and they carry me. So get your support team together, your prayer warriors’ close and your family closer. Remember to dance and sing out loud. Find your happy place and stay there! And if you can’t find it, call me. 18 | Special Edition V&P Community Magazine


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Karen McConnell-Jones


Highly Driven,

Resilient, and Grateful

Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighters and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: What do you want our readers to know about you? Karen McConnell-Jones (KMJ): I would like for the readers to know that I am blessed to be in the Will of God and I am truly living a purposeful life. When you are able to be in your calling and living out your purposes you operate in a mindset of gratefulness. So, when life throws you a curve ball I am able to use my resilient skillset and persevere through it all. I am driven by HOPE and the BELIEF of all things is possible through Christ who strengthens me. VPCM: When you learned of your family member diagnosis of having breast cancer what were your real emotions at the time and how did you prepare yourself to become their caregiver? KMJ: I was hurt, disappointed, and anger, all of the above because life is REAL and that was my REAL emotion at the time. I have been here before with my mom, husband, sister, and now my cousin who was like a daughter to me and living distance apart was even harder. She had great caregivers to help take care of her physically in her mom, daughter, and friend, yet I was the one that she could share her true emotions with, being her mental strength. I wanted her to know that I would move mountains for her and stand in the gap until we can stand together. I wanted to be that listening ear with no judgment that she can count on. VPCM: What does Angel Fighter means to you? KMJ: When life challenges comes and oh, they will come your way, that’s when you really have to know that there’s a Higher Being name GOD. That’s where Angel Fighters draw their strength from so no matter what the circumstances is that you will act and move in the Will of God. You must trust that he is the way and this will allow you to be authentic in your actions.


VPCM: How do you use your knowledge as a caregiver to be a supporter to the Angel Fighters and to be a positive voice in the community? KMJ: I was raised in order to receive a blessing you must first being a blessing. We all have greatness in us and our greatness lies within our gifts and talent that God has blessed us with. Finding away to be unselfish of myself and putting others first whether it’s through our organization food drives, inspirational speaking, or even such as this using my media company to highlight and support our Angel Fighters and positive voices of our community. VPCM: What are some changes that you would like to see from the healthcare providers that can be beneficial to caregivers and their family member who is fighting cancer? KMJ: More affordable medication and finding a way through our healthcare providers and our government to provide more financial resources for the patience and their family. When you have cancer your medical expenses add up yet I do know that the healthcare industry over all is making great strives constantly. VPCM: As a caregiver what are some tips you can share with other caregivers who just learned of their love one diagnosis with cancer? KMJ: Get yourself educated. Learn all you need to learn about the cancer so you will be best equip to be there for your love one and can understand the phases that they will experience. Knowledge is POWER!!! VPCM: What is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? KMJ: Trusting in God and constantly growing my relationship in Him. I have learned to listen to my heart desire of wanting to always be giving of myself and to make a difference in my community. Knowing that life is about lessons and blessings so go learn your life lessons so you can use them as life blessings for yourself and for others! 18 | Special Edition V&P Community Magazine


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Glenda Cousar


Kind, Compassionate, Caring Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighters and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: What do you want our readers to know about you? Glenda Cousar (GC): My daily goal in life is to help others, enjoy identifying resources to those in need, and I am thankful for God for giving me the gift to help the sick. VPCM: What led you to become an oncology nurse? GC: I was a travel Nurse in 1990, and wanted a position in Washington, D.C. the only position at that time was oncology. I took it, and immediately felt in love with oncology Nursing. Realized working with this population was the gift God has given me! VPCM: Do you think there is a special kind of temperament that an oncology nurse has to have when working with cancer patients every day? GC: Yes! You must be caring, compassionate, and flexible. VPCM: How do you use your knowledge as a nurse to be a supporter to the Angel Fighters and to be a positive voice in the community? V&P Community Magazine Special Edition| 27


GC: As an Oncology Breast Nurse Navigator, I help to coordinate their care, identify barriers to access health care, and also identify resources to help lessen the burden. Provide education of this disease, and treatment plan. VPCM: What does Angel Fighter means to you? GC: All of my Breast Cancer patients are angel fighters, warriors, and I have the pleasure of witnessing supernatural strength/God’s grace through each one of them! They are survivors! VPCM: We know that healthcare is very important to the patient treatment process as a nurse what are some improvements that you would to see the healthcare providers make? GC: Better staffing with physicians, oncology nurses, social workers; mental health providers to provide the necessary care and resources to our patients. VPCM: As an oncology nurse what are some tips you can share with a patient that has just been diagnose with cancer? GC: Identify your support team to help you get through this; express how you feel, and be receptive to help (i.e. resources to help and lessen the burden of this diagnosis); remember you are not alone! Your Oncology health team is here to get you through this part of your journey! VPCM: What is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? GC: Prayer! Embracing this gift that God has blessed me with, and function in it to the best of my capability, along with His grace and strength! 28 | Special Edition V&P Community Magazine



Debbie AnnAndrews


Courageous, Confident and Carefree. Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighters and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: What do you want our readers to know about you? Debbie Ann Andrews (DAA): I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer 8 years ago. My initial subconscious was, “God you forsake me!” Prior to the diagnosis, I was mentally exhausted from several doctor appointments, ultrasound, mammogram and an MRI. But, nevertheless, by God’s grace, he never forsake me and I am grateful to be in the land of the living. I serve a sovereign God who bestows peace, protection and provision in the midst of my storm. VPCM: When learning of your diagnosis that you have breast cancer what were your real emotions at the time and how did you prepare yourself?

DAA: I was literally in denial and disbelief, particularly since health and fitness has always been a top priority in my life. Hoping my regular regimen would prevent me from becoming plague with any diseases. But, nevertheless, trials do not come into our lives to break us or hold us in captivity. It’s in those valley experiences that builds us and stretches our faith and equipped us to be our best selves in the time of adversity. Proverbs 24:10 tells us; “If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.” Therefore, as a “Woman of Faith,” it was incumbent upon me to prepare myself by expounding on the word of God, which is my source and my strength. Now unto him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Ephesians 3:20 VPCM: What does Angel Fighter means to you? DAA: An Angel Fighter is someone who has a steadfast and faithful demeanor while on the battlefield. She is a “Warrior” who exemplifies a positive attitude and is confident that the armor of God is her protection. V&P Community Magazine Special Edition| 31


VPCM: How did you use your Angel Fighter skillset to be VICTORIOUS in your fight? DAA: I meditated on God’s word daily, conversed with God in prayer, trusted his faithfulness and walk in a spirit expectancy knowing that God will heal me and give me peace which surpasses all understanding. One of my favorite scriptures is Isaiah 53:5, which reads, But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. I endure the fiery furnace and lost my hair, but I never lost my faith. My surgical scars personify fortitude and resilience. Furthermore, having God’s divine grace over my life, exemplifying self-confidence knowing that I am a “Victor and not a “Victim.” VPCM: After your experience how do you give back to help support others who is fighting breast cancer and to be a positive voice in the community? DAA: In 2020, I launched Faithwalkers 10 for 10 laps, walking for breast cancer awareness month which gives woman the momentum and encouragement to exercise to their maximum capacity for health and wellness. I personally donated my funds to the American Cancer Society Making Strides for Breast Cancer $10.00 for each participant, as well as match an additional $10.00. I’ve also co-authored several writing projects to share my story to empower women who are on the battlefield to walk in faith. VPCM: We know that healthcare is very important to your treatment process, what are some improvements that healthcare providers could make to help you through your journey with breast cancer? DAA: Coordinate with other healthcare providers a wellness check-in buddy system with those who are undergoing treatment to connect with breast cancer survivors and thrivers. VPCM: What are some tips you can share with the oncology team that could be beneficial to their patients? DAA: Maintain a healthy lifestyle by consuming nutritious foods and exercise regularly to boost your immune system. VPCM: After your experience with fighting breast cancer what is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? DAA: 1) I solely rely on biblical principles, which increase my faith and energized my faith muscles. Sound doctrine helps me to evolve to be the woman God created me to be. 2) I don’t allow the issues of life and valley experiences to hinder my divine assignments. 3) I maintain a stress-free life and surround myself with a community of positive people who will infuse me with positive vibes. 4) I speak positive affirmations over myself by declaring victory so my words will manifest and bring light in any given situation. 5)Serve as a breast cancer advocate continuously by utilizing my time and talent to edify others. Overall, mental self-care in every aspect of my life is essential in living a purposeful life. 32 | Special Edition V&P Community Magazine



Michelle Theresa Higgs


Christian, Tactful, Friendly

Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighters and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: What do you want our readers to know about you? Michelle Theresa Higgs (MTH): I was born and raised in New York, my family and I relocated to Prince George’s County, Maryland in 1993. I retired from Prince George’s Community College after thirteen years in December of 2020. I was diagnosed with Breast cancer July 2009. With much faith and a lot of support from family and friends, I am a twelve-year survivor. One of my famous quotes: “Do the best you can until you know better then when you know better do better” Maya Angelou. VPCM: When learning of your diagnosis that you have breast cancer what were your real emotions at the time and how did you prepare yourself? MTH: I Prayed and followed the instructions of the doctors. VPCM: What does Angel Fighter mean to you? MTH: I’m not an Angel but I am a fighter. VPCM: How did you use your Angel Fighter skillset to be VICTORIOUS in your fight? MTH: I was raised to keep the faith and press through adversity. VPCM: After your experience how do you give back to help support others who is fighting breast cancer and to be a positive voice in the community? V&P Community Magazine Special Edition| 35


MTH: I don’t outwardly volunteer or advise anyone on what they should or shouldn’t do when diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer is a horrific illness and it’s very emotional. When and if I am asked to assist or for advice or my experience, I am more than willing to offer. VPCM: We know that healthcare is very important to your treatment process, what are some I improvements that healthcare providers could make to help you through your journey with breast cancer? MTH: I was extremely blessed with awesome doctors, nurses and the staff. I trusted my healthcare providers and followed their instructions and everything they instructed me to do prevailed. VPCM: What are some tips you can share with the oncology team that could be beneficial to them patients? MTH: Have patience and empathy and thoroughly explain the process and the next steps. VPCM: After your experience with fighting breast cancer what is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? MTH: I take it one day at a time. Although I’m may not be successful at it every day, but eating healthy and exercise. I stay in prayer.

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Determined, Encourager, Fighter

Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine is honored to be celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with our Angel Fighters as we get a chance to meet our fighters up close and personal while coming together to share in the message of HOPE and VICTORY. We thank you Angel Fighter and thank you for being our HEROS! VPCM: What do you want our readers to know about you? Louise Audrey Battle (LAB): I have lived my life to help others and impact the lives of all those around me in a positive and effective manner. Living is serving! VPCM: When learning of your diagnosis that you have breast cancer what were your real emotions at the time and how did you prepare yourself? LAB: I was confused, in shock and in denial. I prepared myself by reading everything I could find about breast cancer to understand what was going on in my body. VPCM: What does Angel Fighter means to you? LAB: Angel Fighter means a warrior, a strong and courageous person(s) who protect us when we are too fragile...mine were my family, doctors and nurses, friends and church family! VPCM: How did you use your Angel Fighter skillset to be VICTORIOUS in your fight? LAB: I studied the enemy….Breast Cancer… and tried to become the healthiest I could be and I have stayed that way! I changed bad habits. VPCM: After your experience how do you give back to help support others who is fighting breast cancer and to be a positive voice in the community?

V&P Community Magazine Special Edition| 39


LAB: I wrote a book sharing my journey, giving resources to other women entitled, “The Fight is On.” I was a Breast Cancer Navigator for several years. VPCM: We know that healthcare is very important to your treatment process, what are some improvements that healthcare providers could make to help you through your journey with breast cancer? LAB: Good care is essential and good health insurance insures you obtain it. I had good insurance, but expensive tests and co-pays still met me with expensive medical bills. Health providers need to find more resources to assist women in cutting costs for better care. I share will others some of the resources that assisted me. VPCM: What are some tips you can share with the oncology team that could be beneficial to their patients? LAB: Tell your patients that breast cancer is not a death sentence. Many of us have survived it! Life as you knew it will be on pause to reset and reframe your life. Explain terms and their specific situations, so that they understand what is going on inside their bodies.

VPCM: After your experience with fighting breast cancer what is your secret sauce to living a purposeful life? LAB: Fear is not an option! Make a bucket list, Trust God, take care of yourself like you took care of everyone else and LIVE!

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Devay Tarchelle Campbell


Honoring the Angel Fighters

We all know that Breast Cancer Awareness Month is reserved in the month of October. This is the time we celebrate the survivors, overcomers, and the fighters. CANCER!!! Who are you and why are you here? We all know it DOES NOT discriminate. It doesn’t care about your race, your spiritual background, or even your SEX (male or female). It just comes on with vengeances and you must FIGHT it with vengeances! Who are our Angel Fighters? Who are our WARRIORS? YOU ARE! V&P Community Magazine would like to recognize all our FIGHTERS of breast cancer as we give special tribute to Angel Fighter Ms. Devay Tarchelle Campbell

The Love of an Angel Fighter Devay Tarchelle Campbell was a phenomenal woman, a self-driven woman, a remarkable woman, yet above all, to her family and friends, she’s IRREPLACEABLE! Devay’s life story is a true testament of a person being a conqueror and an achiever. She was a fine example of living life to the fullest and living with no regrets. Early on in her teen years she showed us then just what she was made of. As a young teen mom in high school, Devay was determined to finish her education and not to become an At-Risk statistic. Not only did she finish, she graduated with honors. Devay made the honor’s list her entire high school years, graduating with a 4.0 grade average. Setting the BAR very early on for herself to always become an achiever in life. After raising her daughter, Devay decided it was now time for her to on to college. She attended Kaplan University, graduating with her AAS Business Administration with Management Concentration and her BS in Professional Studies/Human Resources. She continued her tradition of graduating with high honors, making the president’s and dean’s list the whole entire time while in college. Devay when on to have an outstanding career and a thriving HR firm, she became the most sort after career coach in her field, four time bestselling author, and the top keno speaker at many conferences. 42 | Special Edition V&P Community Magazine


Devay wanted people to win in life personally and professionally, Point, Blank, and Period. If it was important to you, it was important to her. She helped coached many of people into their true purpose. Even through her bout with breast cancer she was still coaching her clients to the top of their career and helping them to reach their personal endeavors. She wrote her last book in support for the fighter of breast cancer, Plan to Succeed Daily Planner. Devay was courageous in her fight with breast cancer and yet the biggest protector for her family while in her fight. She stayed private an intimate with her immediate family to allow them their time to go through the process and to assure them that they will be okay. She was our ROCK and an ANGEL FIGHTER until the end. She just wanted her daughter Sequoia, grandson CJ, mother Alfreda, and dear friend Cecilia to know to keep the faith and that she will forever be their ANGEL watching over them. To my cousin/daughter Devay thank you for showing us what real strength is and for loving and protecting us until the end. We love you always!

In loving Memory of Devay Tarchelle Campbell


We Are Angel Fighters!

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