Plains Township, Luzerne County --
Judy Isenberg of Forty Fort struts her stuff at the second annual fashion show to benefit Candy's Place at the Woodlands Inn and Resort here Sunday. Just three years ago, she was battling breast cancer.
She had a lumpectomy and underwent chemotherapy and radiation. After about one year, she was cancer-free. She says her battle taught her to enjoy life.
But even more difficult than her own diagnosis was her granddaughter's battle with cancer. Mallary McClintock of Kingston was just 20 years old when she was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in February of last year.
"I thought I had a bladder infection, a urinary tract infection, and then I went to a gynecologist for further tests, and he sent me for emergency surgery in Allentown," said Mallary. "And it was chaotic, it really was."
Judy and Mallary were proud to be on the runway together to benefit other people battling cancer. But they're both even prouder of something else -- Mallary beat ovarian cancer for a second time when it returned this past October.
"That was even more devastating for us, but look at her," said Judy of her granddaughter. "She never stops smiling, she never stopped joking. You know, it's a lesson we can all take from her."
But Mallary says her grandmother inspired her during her battle.
"I learned I can get through it. I watched her get through it, and I knew I could," said Mallary. "You just can't give up."
And Mallary hasn't given up on anything, including finishing her college career. After taking time off from school for intense chemotherapy, she'll graduate next month.
