Pink Lemonade: A Jubilant Survivor’s Story of Beating Breast Cancer

Recently I had the great pleasure of meeting an inspiring woman named Tamara. She has written about her health journey with breast cancer in her book Pink Lemonade. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, I thought this was the perfect time to ask her to share her special story with all of us!

This is the story of Tamara Kaye Severin who at the age of 45, with no family history Tamara received the staggering news that she had malignant breast tumors in both breasts. 

With a sense of humor and sarcastic wit Tamara shares the story of her 3 year struggle to accept the things she cannot change (her health), change the things she can (healthcare) and the wisdom to seek out the best treatment available. Now a jubilant survivor Tamara is telling her story. The story of God’s faithfulness and fortification as she overcame serious health obstacles all while rearing a teenager! Not only does Tamara prudently share the gripping details of her battle, she provides insightful understanding to those facing a life-threatening disease. Perhaps even more importantly; to those who love them, and want to support them during their journey.

My interview with Tamara:

Why did you write your book Pink Lemonade?

When I was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer at the age of 45, I, along with my friends and family were in total shock. To  keep everyone informed, I began to send out emails. I was blogging before I even knew what a blog was! Many of my emails found their way to other women  who had been diagnosed with breast cancer and were in search of answers, support and inspiration. As a result of those initial emails, I received numerous requests for a book. Ironically, I never thought of myself as a writer; I’m a speaker! Eventually, I sat down and began to tell the whole story. I realized, we are all given lemons and must focus on the making of sweet lemonade, not the sour lemon itself. The title of the book is a reflection of that experience, in my case, my lemonade was pink!

How can your book help others?

Pink Lemonade was written so that other women going through breast cancer can feel empowered and optimistic. My favorite scripture is  2 Timothy1:7 “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self discipline.”  I found that to be so true. My story is all about making choices along the way, staying strong and fighting for what you know is right for you and your situation. Because I was surrounded by the love and support of my friends and family, I wanted to share details about what they did for me, in hopes that  others would be inspired to do the same for their loved one.

How has writing the book changed your life?

Ironically, one week after I became an “Empty Nester”, I was laid off! Instead of viewing the lay-off as a negative, I realized I had just been given the opportunity to make lemonade!  Suddenly, I had the time to write my book. Writing Pink Lemonade has resulted in a whirlwind of  travel, book signings, promotions and interviews. More importantly, because of it’s success, I now realize just how many people are hit with serious illness and need to be encouraged. Nothing makes me happier than to get an email from someone who has been encouraged by my book, or has been given  the book and has had their eyes opened to just what their loved one is going through. It was a tremendous amount of work, but one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. I am blessed to now travel and speak to groups about my experience, and how to best support those going through a serious illness.

People can contact me through my website and order a signed copy of Pink Lemonade http://www.tamarakayeseverin.com/

Pink Lemonade is also available on Amazon, books and Kindle version.

Barnes & Noble also carries my book with a Nook version as well.

Book stores can order my book by going to http://www.tamaraspinklemonade.com/and purchase through my publisher.