My name is Sherri Moyer Brooks. I was born and raised in Nelson County, Virginia. I am number six of seven girls born to James & Nannie Moyer. I’ve been married to my loving husband, David Brooks since August 24, 1984. I work at Lovingston Physical Therapy as an Office manager. I was diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer in May 2010 with METS to the right side of my liver at the age of 45, after being very healthy (I was on no prescription medications before being diagnosed). There is no family history of cancer. My Dad was diagnosed with Stage II colon cancer in 2012 (two years after me). My father is currently 84 and my mother is 86.
After my diagnosis, I had to start working part-time. I had always worked full-time prior to being diagnosed. I’ve always been close to my family, but after being diagnosed, we have become even closer. We always make sure to say “I love you”. I get tired more easily. My husband and my family have been my rock. They make me laugh and have supported me 100%.
June 2010, I had to have emergency surgery to remove one of my tumors. During surgery I had a tumor removed, colon resection, and ovaries removed. I then had another major surgery in December 2010. I had a second colon tumor removed, colon resection, 60% of liver removed, gallbladder removed, appendix removed, and uterus removed. My recovery was a challenge because I wanted to be well and not have limitations. I was cancer free for six months, but had a recurrence in two lymph nodes in my chest in October 2011. I did chemotherapy every other week from November 2011 to November 2012. I started Radiation therapy January 2, 2013. Chemotherapy is a challenge 
because it makes you feel so horrible, but I continued to work part-time and attend social events.
My words of wisdom to others who are fighting this disease would be don’t give up and try to keep a positive attitude. Have your screenings and work, work for a cure for this nasty disease! Do I wish I didn’t have cancer? YES, but I absolutely refuse to let cancer define me. I also refuse to stop living my life. I’m very social and I continue to attend gatherings with my family and friends.
I am so lucky to have the love of a wonderful husband, supportive family, friends and employer, a community that has rallied around me with get-well cards, money, prayers, benefits and also a positive attitude.