Today we’d like to introduce you to Dorchelle Spence.
Hi Dorchelle, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
It started on Tuesday, April nineteenth. That day, while showering, I noticed a gumball-size knot in my right armpit. I felt for, but could not find, a corresponding knot on my left side. But on the right side, I could affix my fingers around this thing and jiggle it.
The sudden recognition of what it was and its tremendous significance hit me like a Mack truck. I worked to steady my nerves and quiet the warning bells clanging inside my head until my scheduled doctor’s appointment that Friday. It didn’t take long to receive the diagnosis of breast cancer.
The battle for my life was much longer and harder. It included chemotherapy infusions, surgery, and radiation treatments over nearly two years. During that time, I created a mindset and a mantra of being positive and courageous. I also relied on faith, friends, and a bit of finesse to make it through.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My initial diagnosis was triple-negative breast cancer, stage 2B.
It is the most aggressive and deadliest form of the disease. I was devastated. I had a daughter just entering ninth grade, three young adult step-sons, a husband, and a live-in mother who needed care. Fortunately, that diagnosis wasn’t supported by the pathology report – teaching me that doctors are not infallible.
During chemotherapy, my oncologist prescribed a chemotherapy drug that was known to cause permanent hair loss in a certain percentage of patients. As a trial attorney, my husband happened to be familiar with the litigation and spoke up before the orders were entered.
Radiation treatment was the loneliest experience of my life. There was also the emotional turmoil and physical changes that made the ordeal nearly unbearable.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an author and motivational speaker, lending my voice to topics ranging from self-advocacy and cancer survival to self-worth and the power of shoes.
My book, Into the Gathering Clouds, is a memoir of survival incorporating faith, friends, and finesse. My debut novel, No Less Worthy, tells the story of a girl fighting the cycle of abuse and poverty to become a young woman finding her worthiness through strength and perseverance.
Formerly, I served as Vice President of the non-profit charged with managing Memphis’ riverfront.
As second in command, I provided strategic direction and oversight of all organizational initiatives. Among my most memorable projects was directing the international design competition that led to the construction of the first new structure on the city’s public riverfront in decades – Beale Street Landing.
After retiring in 2018, my focus turned to writing and public speaking. What makes my work in this area stand out is a willingness, to be honest, and vulnerable in sharing stories that inspire and motivate others.
I strive to help readers and live audiences see the grace and mercy around them and encourage them to put in the work to become the people they aspire to be.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I understand the need for mentorship because, for me, it truly took a village. Fortunately, a family living near one of my aunts took a special interest in me at a young age. The Knight family spent time with me, introducing me to people, places, and experiences outside my neighborhood.
They provided an example of traditional family love and created an environment in which I could begin to imagine a life beyond my circumstances. They were truly heaven-sent and remain an intricate part of my life today.
Sometimes, you happen upon mentors. Other times, you have to seek them out. A supervisor, colleague, board member, and community group member. You’ll be naturally drawn to the right person – something they say will resonate, their mannerisms will appeal to you, and their actions will inspire you.
That’s the one you want to reach out to.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.DorchelleSpence.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorchellespence/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dorchelle.spence
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/dorchellespence
