CISCO, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) - Inside the Hilton Conrad Center, you can find Tammy Loran. For the past five years, she has been serving as the Executive Director of the Cisco Chamber of Commerce. But, she has worn many hats, from former mayor and councilwoman to educator. She gave back to her community throughout her career, but her life changed this past summer.
"I had a mammogram in January, and everything was clear, and like probably most women, we don't check our breast like we should, and one night, I was showering in April and found a lump," explained Loran.
Initially thinking it was a cyst, but was later diagnosed in June with stage 2 breast cancer.
"They put it up on the screen, and I was able to point right to it and say, "There it is," said Loran.
They are now raising awareness about early cancer detection. As life can change in an instant, it is currently taking chemotherapy sessions that will be complete in March of next year. Encouraging all women to check their breasts as it's something quick that takes about 30 seconds, but those 30 seconds can save your life.
"So I'm glad I had an instinct to check them that particular night in the shower. And I want to encourage all ages of women, young or old, to check their breasts and to get their yearly mammograms," added Loran.
Although cancer is overwhelming and physically challenging, it's her friends helping her get through it. Many friends are raising funds to help with medical expenses - their theme is "Her fight is our fight." Amanda Rogers-Bennett is one of those friends. Knowing Tammy for more than 10 years.
"She is a ray of sunshine, and she's willing to give whatever she can to anybody at any time. On even her bad days, she's still here. She's still going. We're grateful and blessed to have someone like that in our community," added Rogers-Bennett.
Despite multiple rounds of chemo, Loran is determined to keep working and giving back. She is thankful for the support from family and friends.
Despite multiple rounds of chemo, Loran is determined to keep working and giving back; Loran said she is thankful for the support from family and friends.
The fundraiser in honor of Loran will be on Saturday, October 12, at the Conrad Hilton from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The band will play the broken strings, and there will be a silent auction and a taco lunch with a donation. The event is open to all.