Emily Bintliff, a mother of two grown sons, is a wonderful example of how support, faith and strength can battle the disease that is breast cancer. Although Bintliff has lived in Fort Worth for almost 40 years, she received a new appreciation for the strong community after overcoming the illness because it supported her in the darkest moments of her life.

After completing her degree at Texas Christian University, Bintliff became an active member of the Fort Worth community. She worked at the TCU campus library for seven years, during which time she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Like most people with this illness, she received amazing support from her family, friends and community.

“I was lucky to have a job that gives you all the time you need in addition to promising you a place to come back to,” she said.

Bintliff established relationships with community members, neighbors and friends despite the draining battle with breast cancer. Women reached out to her in a way that Bintliff had never experienced before.

Fort Worth has a strong Susan G. Komen affiliate group, known as Komen Tarrant County. Not only do the women involved with Komen Tarrant County raise money to fight the disease, they strive to increase awareness while supporting those families struggling with the effects of the disease.

Once Bintliff won her battle against cancer, she decided to participate in the Race for the Cure and also the Frogs for the Cure programs every year. Now these events play an important role in her life.

“I don’t demand that my sons spend every Christmas or Thanksgiving with me, but they show up at the race every year, no matter what, because they know that day is for me,” she said.

Emily Bintliff was diagnosed with breast caner in 2003. Bintliff first participated in the community breast cancer programs in 2004. That year also marked Bintliff’s recovery from the illness.

Now, seven years after her diagnosis, Bintliff dedicates herself to increasing awareness of breast cancer. She is now employed at Fort Worth County Day and remains involved in community activities and offers support to women and families struggling with the disease. Although the disease remains the biggest struggle yet in her life, Bintliff appreciated the opportunity to experience such a strong community that came together in her time of need.