Even Through Hardship, Bosquez Still Puts Students First

Devastating is the only word that can even briefly convey the endless pit in Lydia Bosquez’s stomach. The ache in her gut matches the one in her chest, and everything she knew was going to change. One of Judson’s finest teachers was diagnosed with cancer.

“I thought I was going to die,” Bosquez said.

Her story is remarkable.

Bosquez grew up in Delray, TX. Her first language is Spanish. She was the oldest of three girls and attended a catholic school where English and religion were instilled into her. She began teaching 38 years ago, after she was a nun in a convent for seven years. She adopted her niece, Laura, at 49, who she says is her pride and joy.

Bosquez was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2010, her first year teaching at Judson. She had surgery that very next month in August 2010. She jumped right into chemotherapy in September 2010 until September 2011.

“The thing about cancer is that you fight and realize that every day is special,” Bosquez said. “Every day is a gift. I made plan to be buried, but I beat it, I got better.”

Bosquez has a sweet, but determined attitude when approaching every day obstacles. She is a survivor who embraced that she will beat cancer.

“It was important for me to stay humble,” Bosquez said. “I learned to ask for help.”

She stresses how her family, God, and the Judson community lifted her spirit and made her feel like she wasn’t alone.

2“Some days were harder than others, but my students are my drive,” Bosquez said. “They always ask, ‘Why are you so happy?’ I tell them ‘It’s because I love what I do. I have the best kids. And I am thankful for my life.’”

Even after the physical and emotion toll taken on her, Bosquez continues to stay positive. With the support the faculty and the students, she overcame. It is an example of how support and love can concur anything. However, it all comes back to being in the classroom.

“I love to teach. It’s my passion. It’s not what I do, but who I am,” Bosquez said.