Everett, Wash.
Published: Friday, October 17, 2008

Survivor feels 'profound appreciation' for life

 Patsy Jacoy of Lynnwood, 45, endured a lengthy cancer fight that started with seemingly successful chemotherapy but ultimately continued with a double mastectomy as well as more chemo and radiation. She was nominated by her husband, who wrote this essay:

"I am not writing this for myself or for her, but for you, so that you can hear about an amazing and inspiring person. It would be difficult to explain those long, dark and painful days -- days in which time stood still and echoes of fear and the unknown rang throughout the house.

"To list the challenges would be long and difficult, and not as meaningful as the successes. It is much easier to explain the here and now. Her exterior beauty is obvious, and within only moments of meeting her, it is apparent that she is as beautiful within. She has such amazing grace, love and wisdom. She is without adversaries and arguments.

"From her diagnosis to treatment, surgery and recovery, she moved in and out of each day with such determination, will and the attitude of a survivor. Through Patsy's and our family's experience with cancer, we have all learned some valuable life lessons: to welcome, love and live each and every day with a profound appreciation for the gift it truly is.

"Pasty Jacoy is my wife, my best friend, a wonderful mother and sister, beautiful, strong and funny. Pasty Jacoy is a breast cancer survivor."
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA