Life was normal as could be until Oct. 14, 2016. After going for my regular annual mammogram they found a suspicious area, after an ultrasound they could not determine it was cancer. Oh how I wish they had sent me for a biopsy that day. He recommended I come back in six months, when I went back it was too late. The cancer had formed two tumors and went into my lymph nodes under my right arm. That was the day my life changed forever, I felt like I was in a whirlwind attending doctor appointments back to back. I was diagnosed with Invasive Carcinoma Breast cancer stage 2 and on Nov. 1st started my first chemo treatment, my last one will be Feb. 16, 2017. I will have surgery in March (double mastectomy) because I am HER2 positive and the odds of it coming back in the other breast are doubled. I will then go through 10 weeks of radiation and then three reconstruction surgeries. My last treatment will be one year of Herceptin given at Levine Cancer Center every three weeks. All of this has been difficult for me because after being a pastor's wife for 10 years then working in Human Services field for 16 years I am accustomed to helping others. I keep telling myself, I don't have time to be sick or go through any of this. Unfortunately cancer has no respect of persons. It does not care if you have a job, family or plans for your life. My faith in God has been tested like never before. The fear that comes along with cancer is something that grips your very soul. I have had no other choice but to trust in God for peace and continue the fight and accept the treatment plan. I want to live and laugh again!! I believe after all the treatments my report will be a positive one with NO MORE CANCER!!
I grew up in the Shelby, graduated from Crest High School in 1977 and have been touched by the support from former classmates through social media. Also from old friends and former co-workers through social media.
I am so thankful for the 10 years of pastoral work at Christian Worship Center in Ellenboro with my husband Danny Smiley Sr. who passed away in 2005. Through that experience it built my foundation of faith that has remained strong over the years and is helping me in this fight.
After leaving pastoral work I have continued to work in the Human Services field in various positions, most of which has been in Therapeutic Foster Care. I love helping others and serving those who need help to reach their fullest potential.
I am most thankful for my wonderful family who have supported me and stood by me. My three grown sons and four precious grandchildren have really gave me the determination to keep fighting because I want to be here to watch them grow up.
A special thank you to "Van", he has stood by me with his unfailing love and commitment.
I was overwhelmed by the financial fundraisers my family starting planning for me over the next few months. In June 2016, I took a job in Asheville at RHA making quite a bit more money. I had no idea four months later I would be diagnosed with cancer. RHA has been wonderful to work with me but they are limited on the amount of days you can be out. Because I have not been with the company one year I have no family medical leave and not enough PTO days to cover the time I need for surgeries and treatment. Mid January I took a part time position due to the negative effects from chemo and treatments that are scheduled in Gastonia and Shelby. On March 1st I will be going out of work for surgery and treatment. My doctors have told me I should expect to be out of work 6-7 months. This was devastating to me because I have always worked and maintained my own way. I would like to thank everyone in advance that give toward these events. Cancer has changed me and I now know there is no way I can do this on my own. My greatest desire is that you pray for me that after all of this I will remain cancer free the rest of my life.
In his love and mine, Debbie Smiley

Debbie Smiley Breast Cancer Fundraiser Event: How you can help
Location: Safe Harbor Community Church
301 South Battleground Ave
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Date: Feb. 25, 2017
Time: 5- 7 Hotdog plates for $5.00 Includes: 2 hotdogs, chips, drink and dessert and from 7 until 9 - Gospel Singing featuring Kathy Payne, John Heath and Robert Fraley.
If you cannot attend this event there are others ways to give. Any donation would be greatly appreciated. Visit www.gofundme.com/debbie-smiley-breast-cancer-fund for online donations. If you would like to send a donation by mail please contact Aaron Corson for information 704-915-0272.