According to the American Cancer Society, in 2016 there will be an estimated 1.7 million new cancer cases diagnosed and almost 600,000 cancer deaths in the U.S. alone. While the numbers are staggering, what they don’t show is the healing power of family and community rallying around their loved ones as they fight for their lives.
The community at PS22 in Graniteville, New York rallied around fourth grade teacher Mrs. Adriana Lopez as she began the fight of her life against breast cancer. At the time of her diagnosis in 2015, Mrs. Lopez was a new teacher at PS22 and instantly connected with everyone. Mrs. Lopez shared her warmth, creativity and joyful smile with all she came across.
(Photo: Mrs. Lopez with her students from the PS22 Choir)
Mr. Gregg Breinberg ("Mr. B"), choral director for PS 22, spoke with TDJakes.com about his friend.
“Staff and students loved her right away. When we heard of her devastating news we wanted to make her feel loved and find a way to give back,” he said.
Mr. B and the world renowned PS22 choir came up with a song to perform in honor of the strength of their beloved teacher: Martina McBride’s “I’m Gonna Love You Through It”.
The chorus decided to surprise Mrs. Lopez at their end-of-year performance.
“She got more than she bargained for when she sat down on that stage. We wanted her to feel like family," he said. "It was a great opportunity to show the kids that by sharing their talent, and doing what they love, they could share true love and healing.”
Their tribute to Mrs. Lopez has been viewed 3.5 million times on You Tube; they were all invited to share their touching performance on The View, alongside Martina McBride herself.
(Photo: Martina McBride and the PS22 Choir on The View)
(Photo: Mr. Breinberg and Mrs. Lopez with Whoopi Goldberg on The View )
Mr. B taught the kids that you have to “give what you got.” It's a great reminder to give of ourselves in any small way we can.
Mr. B shared that after dozens of treatments, with the comfort and support of family and friends by her side, Mrs. Lopez is currently “cancer free!”