Debbie Leonard, Fellow Court Reporter & Friend

BREAST CANCER has struck another of our dear friends and fellow court reporter. Debbie Leonard went in for a routine mammogram in February this year and they discovered cancer. She had it removed, and the results did not come back with clear margins; therefore, they went in again for a second surgery in April to remove lymph nodes. After that, Debbie developed cording, which is a possible outcome from the surgery.

Here is an explanation of cording (in case you, like me, are not familiar with it):

After surgery to remove lymph nodes in the armpit, some women develop cord-like structures under the skin on the inner arm. This is called cording or axillary web syndrome (AWS). We do not know exactly why cording happens. It is thought to be caused by inflammation and scarring of the tissues that surround the lymph vessels, blood vessels and nerves. Cording is fairly common in women who have had most of the lymph nodes removed from the underarm. This can affect your ability to do many daily activities, such as writing on a steno machine.

Well, what court reporter can work with that? In someone who doesn't use their arms and hands to make a living, maybe this wouldn't be the worst outcome; but for someone who does what we do, it definitely makes it impossible to do our jobs.

Debbie has not been able to work since February. She is, as many freelance court reporters, self-employed. In addition, she is single and, therefore, is a sole breadwinner.

Debbie is the consummate professional! Her writing is impeccable and her demeanor is so calm. She handles every job with such grace and professionalism. Her scopists say she makes their jobs too easy!

In any event, for the FIRST time in her life since 16, Debbie is unable to work at all at this time. Her arm is in a type of immobilization device and she's been in PT to try and get the use back. UGH! If dealing with this cancer isn’t enough, do we have to deal with financial stress as well? It shouldn't have to be that way.

Let's all try to help Debbie as she struggles to get the use of her arm back so she can get back to doing the awesome work she's always done! Debbie’s Faith for healing is strong and is what is seeing her through these dark days. However, any prayers and financial support would be immensely appreciated!