My first experience with breast cancer happened on vacation in Jan 08. I was 44 years old. I had never had any cancer in my family at all! It was a shock when I woke up in the middle of the night while on my side and felt a large lump. 

I'll never forget that feeling at 2:00 a.m. I just knew that this was no fibroid or cyst. My priorities changed in an instant. Suddenly shopping for good deals after Christmas didn't even appeal to me. I just wanted to be alive for my family!

A week later I went in for a diagnostic digital mammogram. The radiologist said he could not see anything. How could that be? It was right there when I laid on my side. So he ordered an ultrasound. There it was, plain as day. Actually 3 different spots were black on the screen.

After several more tests, an MRI and core biopsies, the call came and my surgeon told me it was cancer. I opted for a double mastectomy. Good thing because the biopsies showed it was in both breasts. Ended up I had stage 3, DCIS with lymph node involvement.

After chemotherapy, radiation, a research drug and losing all my hair, here I am and feeling great! I have a new appreciation for what people with cancer go through. It changed my life and my priorities.  We only have one life here on earth and we have to make the most of what God gives us.

Thanks to the Susan G. Komen foundation, we are made aware of the importance of early detection and awareness of the importance of self breast exams.  My cancer was a slow growing, estrogen receptive, and very likely would have been much less invasive to treat had it been detected earlier.

The breast cancer walk here in Mishawaka is just one of the outstanding ways for us to make every woman aware of how important it is to have a mammogram, do self breast exams and DON'T ignore any changes in your body. If something you notice doesn't go away after 2 weeks, get it checked. It won't go away by ignoring it. 

So, fellow survivors or those who are experiencing this now, hang in there and know that you have hope in a cure. Get involved in an organization like the Susan G Komen race for the cure! Give back to the community and let's cherish every day!