KARA'S STORY - Breast cancer has always been a huge part of my life as far back as I can remember. My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 7 years old and lost her courageous battle 7 years later. With my family history I knew I would need to be screened at an earlier age but never thought that age would be 27.

I believe my diagnosis is what they call divine intervention. My tumor was found during routine testing of new mammography equipment in February 2009. It was my first mammogram and little did I know it was going to be my last.

I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ on March 2, 2009. I was 27, had only been married for 8 months, just started a new job, and my husband and I just purchased our first home. Talk about bad timing. The minute my doctor said the word ﾓCancerﾔ I knew what I had to do. I decided to undergo a double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery.

I had surgery on March 25th, 2009. That was the hardest day of my life. Knowing that in order to save my life I was going to cut off a part of my body was a hard thing to wrap my head around. In a society that is so obsessed with body image how would I ever fit in? I thought I was losing my femininity but actually I was about to discover a whole new side of it.

I am now cancer free and luckily I did not have to endure chemotherapy. Through my journey I have learned to stop and smell the roses more often and not to take each day for granted. Every day I am reminded of the battle I fought. My scars are my battle wounds. They will fade with time.

My husband Brian has always been my biggest supporter. I admire his strength. The love and support of my family and friends is the fuel that keeps me going. My journey thus far has definitely had its fair share of trials and tribulations but as each day passes I know my mother has always been by my side.

The most important lesson I have learned and try incorporate in my everyday life is that breasts do not make women beautiful; grace, courage, strength, and bravery is what makes women beautiful.