Councilwoman Marti Emerald not backing down from cancer
SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – She is San Diego’s no nonsense District 9 representative, always fighting for the little guy.
But now, City Councilwoman Marti Emerald is fighting her own breast cancer battle.
The weekend of November 1st, was a big one for Councilwoman Emerald. She gained a husband and lost all her hair, both by choice.
She married Karl Bradley, a man she met online two years ago, in a quickly planned ceremony because, frankly, life is short, and unpredictable.
“It’s easy to be together and have a great relationship when things are going well. It’s when life takes twists and turns that you really know what’s important,” said Councilwoman Emerald.
The day after she got hitched, Marti stood in front of thousands at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, and shaved her head.
Her hair was falling out because of the chemo, and she was having none of it. She had to take control of something.
“To have my now husband shave his head along with me, was so supportive,” she said.
Post lumpectomy, Marti is now in the middle of 12 weeks of chemotherapy at Sharp Grossmont Hospital. Radiation comes next, but she still works tirelessly for those who live in District 9.
Her strength comes from within.
“I can tell when the chemo is making her not feel well. I try to encourage her to rest, and not push herself too hard,” said Karl.
“We could be down in the mouth, feel sorry for myself, but it doesn’t get me where I want to go, which is cured. Need a positive attitude and feel that we have some power,” said Councilwoman Marti.
On Election Day, Marti made 130 calls to get to vote out from her hospital bed, while the chemotherapy drugs were coursing through her veins.
The cancer setting her new course, to help others fight any devastating diagnosis.
“I’d say to anyone going through this, believe in yourself, believe in your plan, be an advocate and be positive. They’ll be a brighter day,” she said.
“I’m going to get well, I’m going to beat this disease with the support of family, friends, and a community that has really reached out,” she added.
As soon as she gets a clean bill of health, Marti and Karl will go on their honeymoon to France.
But then the Councilwoman says she has to get back to San Diego because there are a lot of things on tap for the city in 2015.
