Edie Hazen: A Champion of Strength, Spirit, and Survival

Edie Hazen's journey has not been easy. At one point, she visited the doctor, unable to walk straight or even sign her name. While waiting, she overheard the doctor tell his nurse, "I have a headache." Edie wobbled over to him and quipped, "Go home, take two aspirin, and call me in the morning." That moment sparked a connection, and she came to trust him with her life.

At the time, Edie had throat cancer, and the lump was already large. Her neck vertebrae were deteriorating, requiring surgery to take bone from her hip so she could hold her head up. Doctors warned her that she might be paralyzed from the neck down and advised her to get her affairs in order, as recovery was uncertain.

She underwent two major surgeries—one lasting eight hours to remove every cancerous cell and another, a 10-hour procedure, to rebuild her neck with bone from her hip. Radiation therapy followed, with years of rechecking. Doctors even warned her that she might feel electrical shocks down her spine post-surgery. It was a grueling process, but Edie's strong upbringing gave her the resilience to push through. 

Edie grew up on a farm in Arkansas with eight siblings, working hard and dreaming of college. At 14, she took a job to save for her education. Though she never had the chance to attend, she was determined that her and her husband's three daughters would. She diligently saved to ensure they could pursue higher education and have beautiful weddings.

Now living in San Diego Country Estates, Edie spends much of her time golfing. Two years ago, she entered a four-day San Vicente Golf Tournament while her daughter was undergoing life-saving treatment. On the first day, temperatures soared past 100 degrees, and Edie doubted she'd make it far. But with the encouragement of her daughter and friends, she pushed forward—not only advancing but winning the San Vicente Women's Golf Club President's Cup.



For Edie, a perfect day begins with a latte made by her daughter, followed by 18 holes of golf, and ends with a drink among good friends, sharing laughter and stories. More than a survivor, Edie Hazen is an inspiration. Over 35 years ago, she made a promise to herself to stay positive no matter what, and that's what she's done. Her cheerful spirit, strength, and determination remind us that with hard work, a positive outlook, and the support of loved ones, life can be a wonderful adventure—even when the odds are stacked against you.

Photos courtesy of Edie Hazen. Header photo by Heather McGhee.