My Story:

I, Phyllis Wiedman Silverstein, was diagnosed with stage 1 DCIS breast cancer days before my 45th birthday. I was single and months into a new relationship, had a full time job that demanded a lot of time and two sons under 18. My oldest was a freshman in college and youngest was a junior in high school. My world, quite literally, turned upside down.

Fast-forward my very long story. I ended up with 4 of 6 prescribed chemo treatments because I had every reaction possible and decided 4 treatments were enough. Quickly followed by 35 radiation treatments, all while working full time and trying to be a normal single mom. I ended up having 14 surgeries in four years, with most being reconstructive, due to complications. I had an 'early stage' cancer, but there was nothing easy about the treatment and recovery.

In 2015, I went to a seminar to hear all three of my docs speak and found Hope Afloat USA- a dragon-boat team in Philadelphia. I went to a practice weeks after my 14th surgery and fell in love with the sport, just watching it! It brought back every memory I had of being strong, in shape and athletic; none of which I was at that time. I made the decision that day to join the team.

And now this: Selected to be part of Team USA, the first breast cancer paddler team heading to Germany in July, 2025. The most elite paddlers from 36 countries will be participating at this event. And I get to be part of history.

The opportunity arose in February, 2025...as I was literally just getting back on my feet after a broken foot (surgery), infection (surgery) and non weight bearing for 4.5 months (PS the hardware is scheduled to come out three days after this trip!). To say I was out of shape was an understatement. I worked my ass off, got back into some kind of shape and then tried out. Then I did a follow up camp....and I got the call!

This has brought so many emotions to the surface; not the least of which is gratitude. I prayed every day and negotiated with God to be able to see my son graduate HS and then college. I promised some things to make it to wedding days and begged to be able to meet any grandbabies. You face some serious things in your head when you hear a cancer diagnosis. And now, I an not only surviving...but thriving. I am getting to do all of these things (two babies on the way this summer!).

I also must face the huge burden of paying for this trip of a lifetime; again, not planned but not to be missed. Which is why my amazing friends have put together this GFM page.

I would be humbled and grateful for any contribution you could make to these efforts. I promise to represent my family, my friends and my country to the best of my ability AND BRING HOME A GOLD!

Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart.

Phyllis