October is nationally recognized as breast cancer awareness month, but Pell City High School alum Marcia Coshatt Shoen recognizes the need for awareness about other forms of cancer as well as breast cancer.

“Cancer in any form may be difficult to deal with,” Shoen said.

In March 2010 Shoen was diagnosed with endometrial cancer.  When doctors discovered her cancer, it had already reached stage three.

“I decided to fight the cancer with faith and humor,” Shoen said.  “I didn’t want to be a burden to others.  My father always used to say, ‘Get yourself out of yourself and think of others.’”

On April 13, 2010, the day before her birthday, doctors performed a radical hysterectomy on Shoen to remove the cancer.  Her husband, Clifford, took her to every doctor’s appointment for chemotherapy and radiation treatments.  

During her treatments Shoen and her husband lived an hour and a half outside of Asheville, N.C.  They traveled to the Hope Center in Asheville for Shoen to receive the treatments she needed.  The Hope Chest, a nonprofit organization that operates out of the Hope Center provided financial assistance and moral support during Shoen’s treatment.

While she was at the Hope Center, Shoen met women with different gynecological cancers and recognized the need for more attention to be given and more research done related to cancers that women face in addition to breast cancer.

“I truly have compassion for anyone who has any type of cancer, but I do think there needs to be more awareness raised for gynecologic cancers,“ Shoen said.  “Maybe October should be a month of awareness for all types of cancer.”

After her final chemo treatment, Shoen and her husband were both overwhelmed with joy.  The experience of being a cancer survivor changed her life.

“Something like this brings out the best in people.  It causes you to reflect on life and appreciate life more,” Shoen said.

Now Shoen says she tries to be a voice for anyone facing cancer.

“I try to be a spokesperson for anyone with cancer.  I want to dedicate my life to helping others,” Shoen said.”  I just want to pay it forward to others.”

Shoen goes back to the doctor in November for another scan to make sure she is still cancer free.