08/21/2025
Join us in celebrating one of our dearest residents...
💗Sharon Kennedy — 36 Years Uterine Cancer Free💗
In 1988, at the age of 34, Sharon began experiencing significant menstrual problems. Despite visiting multiple doctors, she was repeatedly told that losing weight would resolve the issue. Determined to improve her health, she joined TOPS in January 1989, began walking two miles a day, and lost 56 pounds by July. But her symptoms persisted. Eventually, she went to Women and Children’s Hospital, where Dr. Hitt performed an endometrial biopsy. Sharon hemorrhaged during the procedure, and a second biopsy revealed the life-changing news — she had uterine cancer. On August 10, 1989, she underwent her first surgery and was diagnosed with Stage IV uterine cancer.
Sharon’s strong faith carried her through what could have been an overwhelming journey. “It was devastating at first,” she recalls, “but I knew the Lord would take care of me. I was saved when I was young and raised in a Christian home — my dad was a pastor.” After her initial surgery, her doctors recommended 25–30 radiation and chemotherapy sessions. Fearing she would not survive the regimen, she declined and sought alternative treatment. Dr. Hitt reopened her incision to take further samples, and, just as Sharon had believed, no cancer was found! Throughout it all, Sharon leaned on her two daughters, Jamie and Danielle, as well as her unwavering faith, for strength and motivation.
Now, more than three decades later, Sharon says she feels blessed to be here. Life at Dunbar Center has not only given her access to the care and assistance she needs, but it has also given her something deeper — a sense of belonging and purpose. “Since coming to the Dunbar Center, I truly feel like this is my home,” she says. “This isn’t just a place where I live; it’s a place where I can give back in my own way. I feel like I have a purpose here, connecting with other residents, listening to their stories, and offering a smile or a kind word when they need it most.” For Sharon, those connections are life-giving. She treasures the friendships she’s made, the laughter she shares, and the comfort of knowing she is surrounded by people who care.
While she doesn’t formally celebrate her cancer-free anniversary each year, Sharon remains active in her church and uses her journey to encourage others facing similar challenges. Her advice is simple but powerful: “Do not give up. Don’t let it out-do you. Think positive. You’ve got to look ahead; you’ve got to think about what there is to live for.” For Sharon, being 36 years cancer free is a reminder that God is not finished with her yet. “There’s a reason why I’m here,” she says. “I don’t want it to end. I want to carry on as long as the Lord lets me".
