The Susan G. Komen for the Cure has named Point Loma resident Irene Oberbauer as its 2010 Honorary Breast Cancer Survivor. Diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2009 — at age 52 — Oberbauer has only recently been considered cured, and serves as an inspirational spokeswoman who helps raise awareness of breast cancer screening and education for the San Diego County Chapter. “We meet people throughout the year who touch us,” said Sandy Rabourne, director of community development and outreach for local chapter. Oberbauer was chosen because she is a good example of human strength in grappling with the disease with grace and strength. “She [Oberbauer] is a very strong, accomplished woman,” Rabourne said. Oberbauer is the retired president and CEO of San Diego County Credit Union and a native of Point Loma. She is a mother, wife, sister, daughter and volunteer. In June 2009, Oberbauer found a pea-size lump in her right breast. Doctors initially overlooked her cancer, calling it scar tissue from biopsies she had at ages 19 and again at 24. The oversight prompts Oberbauer to share her wisdom with others. “Seek second opinions,” Oberbauer said. In October 2009, she began seeing Dr. Ann Wallace of the University of California, San Diego and was officially diagnosed with the stage three breast cancer.   Wallace removed the tumor Nov. 12. “I knew I was in good hands at UCSD,” Oberbauer said. She said she appreciated Wallace’s direct approach. “I think you probably know yourself better than anyone,” Wallace said. She acknowledged the importance of patients being as much a part of the care team as the doctor. “Until you know your providers really well, I don’t think you can assume that everything is being evaluated completely,” Wallace said. She wants patients to listen to their own instincts regarding concerns about healthcare providers and even course of treatment. “Nobody is going to speak for you as much as you will speak for you and your family,” Wallace said. This past March, the Susan G. Komen Foundation approached Oberbauer and asked her if she would be willing to accept the title of 2010 Honorary Breast Cancer Survivor and the role that is attached. Oberbauer said she was honored and accepted the role. Rabourne said Oberbauer has overcome tragedy extending well beyond her own battle with cancer. Oberbauer’s father was diagnosed in January 2009 with lung cancer — just nine months before Oberbauer’s own cancer diagnosis.  But the emotional rollercoaster did not end there. Her sister was also diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2009 — five months before her own cancer diagnosis. Oberbaur’s sister passed away this last May. “It’s the luck of the draw,” Oberbauer said. “As far as we know, it’s not a genetic thing.” Oberbauer will speak at the upcoming Race for the Cure on Sunday, Nov. 7 and at the 3-Day Walk event planned for the weekend of Nov. 19 through 21. Oberbauer worked for the San Diego County Credit Union for 15 years before her retirement. She now spends time with her husband, Tom, her sons, Paul, 23, and Sean, 16, all the while participating in speaking engagements for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Drawing from her own experience and strength, Oberbauer offers three words of advice to those facing the battle with cancer. “Don’t give up,” Oberbauer said.