Burgeoning artist, much-loved mom, wife and grandmother and all-round Southern belle, Susan Lamar is a longtime resident of Rocky Mount. Lamar was enjoying her "golden years" with family and new hobbies when she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2006. She's determined not to let her diagnosis get in the way of "living life" and she's turned her cancer-fighting experience into a study of grace and determination.

She has planned the first Paws for a Cause dog walk, scheduled for Oct. 2, and hopes to raise lots of money for the Lineberger Cancer Center in Chapel Hill.

Photo by Alan Campbell (ENLARGE)

Burgeoning artist, much-loved mom, wife and grandmother and all-round Southern belle, Susan Lamar is a longtime resident of Rocky Mount. Lamar was enjoying her 'golden years' with family and new hobbies when she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2006. She's determined not to let her diagnosis get in the way of 'living life' and she's turned her cancer-fighting experience into a study of grace and determination. She has planned the first Paws for a Cause dog walk, scheduled for Oct. 2, and hopes to raise lots of money for the Lineberger Cancer Center in Chapel Hill.

Read on to learn more about this extraordinary woman.

Something many people don't know about me: I am almost completely bald-headed. I wear an inexpensive wig that I got off the Internet. It cost less than a haircut and is easier than real hair.

The food I could eat everyday: I have a salty tooth, instead of a sweet tooth, so I could eat crackers, chips, and other salty snacks every day.

If I could do it all over again: I would marry my hubby all over again.

My passion is: A brand new love of painting that I developed after a week-long class I took this winter.

The most important thing I ever lost was: My planner. It was missing 24 hours, which put me in a state of panic.

My best friend says I am: Instantly ready whenever someone say let's go.

My favorite piece of clothing in my closet: Is my soft, warm, blue robe.

Best decorating advice anyone gave me: Mama told me every room needs a touch of red. She also said the best things in your home are not THINGS.

Words I live by: Cancer is so limited. It cannot cripple love. It cannot corrode faith. It cannot shatter hope. It cannot kill friendship. It cannot shut out memories. It cannot silence courage. It cannot invade the soul. It cannot quench the spirit. It cannot reduce everlasting life. Cancer is so limited.

I wish I'd known: The true value of each and every day.

I am most proud of: My two sons, Lewis and Jamey.

What I've learned from my grandkids: Laughter is the best medicine.

What keeps me awake at night: Wondering how we can help make a difference for others diagnosed with cancer.

I still can't get the hang of: Speaking French so THEY can understand what I'm trying to say.

The world would be a better place if: We'd slow down our pace and take time to enjoy and treasure our life.

I'd like to learn: Something new every day.

Last major purchase: We recently repaired our deck. It's a work of art. Come sit and enjoy the flowers and birds with us.

Last vacation I took: Paris with friends. One of them was honored with an award at the Sorbonne ... so exciting. Then my hubby and I went to Normandy, which was a powerful experience.

Best book I ever read: Anne Morrow Linbergh's "Gift From The Sea"

My theme song is: "The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow" from "Annie."