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

'Right attitude, good doctors and faith' can beat cancer

 Eunice White of Everett, 80, an active resident of Lago de Plata Mobile Villa, a south Everett retirement community, beat breast cancer at age 79. She was nominated by Cheri McDermott of south Everett, who wrote this essay:

"About four years ago, Richard and Eunice White moved into our 55-plus manufactured home park in south Everett. We have 243 homes and a varied population, including quite a few single women in their 70s and 80s.

"Little did we know that things were going to change radically! Eunice became the president of our little community club. She immediately organized it and increased our activities. We had potlucks, welcome parties for new people who moved in, fundraisers and formed an organization to try to safeguard our lifestyle choice and make sure our environment is safe.

"Within one year she had our treasury increased from about $300 to $4,000. This has enabled us with limited incomes to give to different charities, support the food bank in Everett and help the police with their different activities.

"When Eunice announced that she had breast cancer, fear shot through the residents. At our age, that is one word we do not want to hear. Eunice stated flat out that she was going to beat it. She had one breast removed and endured 12 chemotherapy treatments during which she managed to keep things running smoothly, showing up at all activities, and giving all of us hope. She held her bald head high and, with a constant smile, demonstrated that with the right attitude, good doctors and faith, cancer could be beat.

She is a real-life hero and an inspiration to us all. Eunice turned 80 on June 22!"
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA