After 4 bouts with cancer, Regina woman remains optimistic

A Regina woman who has battled cancer four times is now raising money for other people facing the disease.

Dionne Warner, 39, says she hopes cancer patients will be inspired by her story.

She's been raising money for the past two months, selling pink ribbons and other symbols of support for cancer patients.

She knows the challenges of the disease all too well.

"In '95 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Then, in '97, I was diagnosed with brain cancer. 2001, I was diagnosed with liver cancer and in 2002 I was again diagnosed with liver cancer."

Her doctors say Warner has fought an amazing battle in the past decade.

Success, however, has been hard won.

"I'm scarred from head to toe, but you know what? It's all worth it for me to still be here," Warner said.

She said everyone has a moment when they ask "Why is this happening to me?" but eventually, thoughts turn to "What am I going to do to beat this?"

Warner raised $4,020 for the Canadian Cancer Society. During a cheque presentation this week at a Regina cancer lodge, she was praised for her optimism and her volunteer work at the Allan Blair Cancer Clinic.

She said she hopes to raise another $6,000 for cancer research by winter.

"I intend to raise more for as long as I live," she said.