Local Lightning Bay companies’ business owner strikes back at breast cancer

By Charlene Dodge

Tampa, Fla. – When it comes to owning a business, a lot of time, effort and self-sacrifice is involved. Managing others while encountering everyday tough decisions is another enduring task.  So how is one able to run a successful enterprise, fight a life-threatening disease and still stay positive? Lightning Bay Companies’ President and Florida native, Pamela Fay is a strikingly shining example.

Sporting trendy attire and a bright smile, by sight, the average person would not realize Fay fought for her life a short while ago. Since her diagnosis of breast cancer on Christmas Eve of 2013, tremendous amounts of strength and courage are apparent in her daily activities. Even after a long day at the office, a determined Fay still has the drive to head off to the gym.

Although her diagnosis came as a shock, Fay did not let it bring her spirits down. She told her mother not to cry and asked friends and family to stay strong. With her eight dogs by her side, Fay was able to do the same.

In the months proceeding, Fay underwent a double mastectomy and eight rounds of chemotherapy. While Fay has received a Master’s in Microbiology and two other Bachelor’s degrees from the University of South Florida, Fay feels as though she’s achieved something much greater in life. “At chemo graduation, I felt very accomplished, more than any other degree,” says Fay.

Immediately following her graduation from chemotherapy, Fay walked in her first 5K for breast cancer. Lightning Bay’s Purchasing Agent, Sandy Maurer describes Fay’s triumphant ambition.

“Pamela’s strength, courage and determination are awe inspiring, as is her desire to give and to reach out to others, even as she herself is battling cancer, its aftereffects and difficult recovery. She is one amazing woman and I am proud to say Pamela Fay is my boss, my daughter, my best friend,” says Maurer.

With the help of her husband, David Fay, Vice President of Lightning Bay as well as her supportive staff, Fay was able to keep the decade-old company afloat through her most trying times.

Although cancer was a psychical hardship, Fay explains that she wouldn’t change her diagnosis for anything. Fay views her experience from a positive standpoint that inspired her to travel, be more productive and to do things that bring happiness. “You only live once,” says Fay.

Besides taking care of business, Fay is constantly on the go. From volunteering at charitable events to caring for her beloved, four-legged friends, Fay makes every day count.

Fay’s next challenge is on Sunday, October 12, where she plans on participating in the Buccaneers Treasure Chests Corporate 5K at Raymond James Stadium. Fay’s cancer survival story is also one of the three that are featured during the event.

When life gets tough, the tough keep going and as in USF’s motto, Fay undeniably proves that she is truly “unstoppable.”

To see Fay’s survival story, please visit: http://www.buccaneers.com and type in “Stories of Hope: Journey to the TC5K” into the search field. For further information on Lightning Bay Companies, please visitwww.lightningbay.com.

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