Breast cancer survivor Vickie Jefferson just can’t help but thank the Lord above for helping her make it.

Jefferson, who is native of Delway and lives in Clinton, is certain that her life has been motivated directly by divine intervention, and is certain that God will continue to be in her presence as she battles on one day at a time.

“I have put all my trust in the Lord, and I believe that through him, everything is possible,” said Jefferson.

As a matter of fact, a significant focus in her life, prior to her diagnosis in 2008 has been around breast cancer and making sure that women such as herself are aware of the deadly disease. Her way of motivating women has been through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP) in Sampson County that continues to hold breast cancer rallies every year.

“I have been a part of the group for the last eight years,” Jefferson commented.

She explains that got involved initially because she works as a medical office assistant with the health department for the last 20 years.

“They asked us to volunteer and to help out BCCCP rally, and since I liked volunteering and it could get me some comp time at work, I decided to help out,” said Jefferson.

But something from this first rally grabbed at her spirit, and she felt the desire to continue working and helping this organization.

“It became more interesting to see what it was really about, and I came out feeling like I can help somebody,” said Jefferson.

Also, this was not her first experience with breast cancer, per say, she also had a favorite aunt Ruth who developed the disease in her mid forties.

At the time, Jefferson had just had two twin girls, Brittany and Kristen, and had a significant amount of responsibilities surrounding her.

But, in knowing just how close to home the disease is, she also made a significant effort to mammograms and physicals, particularly after she hit the age of 40.

Also, seeing how her aunt struggled with the disease and the inspiration she found from participating with the BCCCP group has now led her for the battle that she faces today — breast cancer.

“As I look back, I see a connection with the things I have done to put me in this position now,” said Jefferson.

Jefferson feels blessed that she was able to find the cancer when she did. Jefferson’s cancer was found at a very early stage, and it would have remained unfound for months to come had she not received a mammogram every year for the last eight years.

Now as she looks out at the world, she now sees it from a new light and understanding from the perspective of a survivor.

“It doesn’t sink in until you have to go through it,” said Jefferson.

As a matter of fact, she doesn’t view breast cancer as an illness.

“I see it as something to go through to get me where I need to be and make me a better person ... It is a journey for me,” Jefferson relayed.

Plus, she also has some loving family member behind her during her “journey,” including husband James, son Rudolph Alford III and her twin daughters.

For those wishing to here more about Jefferson and her miraculous venture, she will be the featured speaker at the BCCCP rally this Saturday, 9 a.m. at the Sampson County Courthouse.

Katie Holland can be reached at 910-592-8137, ext. 136, or by e-mail at silife@myclintonnc.com.