#309: My TV Co-Anchor Battles Breast Cancer With Prayer and Physicians, As She Helps Others Be Healthy

We've co-anchored the main evening newscasts together for nearly two decades. My friend and Emmy-winning journalist Barbara Gauthier is this week's guest on the "Run The Race" podcast, opening up about her journey as a now breast cancer survivor. We also discuss the power of prayer and exercise and community, amidst having a stressful TV news job where we report on tragedies. (3:00) 1 in 8 women in America get breats cancer. Waverly Hall GA native Barbara breaks down the shock and emotions from her diagnosis of stage 1 breast cancer - the day after Christmas - and questions she asked herself + God. We also chat about her treatment (a lot of radiation), if she felt sick, the amazing medical team, and ringing the bell at the John B. Amos Cancer Center in Columbus. (15:09) Taking control of our own health! A cancer doctor tells Barbara that 150 minutes of exercise per week can play a big role in reducing chances for cancer or it coming back. My co-anchor takes that to heart and wants women to make sure you get regular mammograms, especially after age 40. Barbara delaying hers almost meant a worse battle with cancer. Was it her fault? What about drinking? There are some misconceptions there. Now, she feels God may have "chosen" her to go through this because of a platform as a public figure to make others more aware about breast cancer. (30:50) Her 35+ years in TV news with daily deadlines has lead to Barbara praying more because of what we see and report on, sometimes bringing us to tears off air and finding ways to de-stress. That may include some new sports for her soon. And as a new mom, she also lost a lot of sleep reporting on the Oklahoma City bombing for months. (40:30) As a TV news anchor in the public eye, Barbara also gets to lead events and be on boards for local causes she cares about, along with her Harris County church! Thanks for listening to Run The Race, which I close out each week in prayer. Subscribe and tell others about it, as we continue inspirational chats about fitness and/or faith!