One of the people that I admire most had breast cancer twice. My beautiful grandmother, Janet Tanner, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in the 70’s before I was born. Although I did not see firsthand the pain she endured during a mastectomy and chemo, she did tell me that she wanted to die at the time. It’s hard to fathom this comment knowing this tough woman who grew up through the depression without a mother. I’m so glad she had the strength and family support to make it through this trying time. I feel blessed that she survived this ordeal and that I got to know a grandmother who had a special zeal for life. Twenty years later she was diagnosed with cancer in her other breast. Thanks to all the medical progress in breast cancer, this mastectomy was much easier on her and was caught early enough that she didn’t have to do chemo. Three years later I had my own brief battle with breast cancer. At 20 years old, I found a lump in my breast. I had to have a lumpectomy, in which precancerous cells were found and removed. I’ve always been thankful that my grandmother was so open about her battles with breast cancer because it made me more conscious. Her story of faith, courage and recovery helped make my own struggle a little more easier.

There are so many touching stories about woman who have fought breast cancer. My deepest gratitude goes out to all the people who have gotten involved in this cause. Without awareness and advancement, my grandmother and I may not have been so lucky. In sharing stories and research fundraising, maybe someday our daughters will not have to suffer this disease.

Going through a health issue at such a young age really opened my eyes. While there was nothing I could have done to prevent the lump in my breast, I became aware that respecting my body is so important. There is not a more helpless feeling than being sick and not being able to do anything about it. It all goes back to the old saying that my grandmother always said; “If you haven’t got your health, what have you got?” With that as my motto, I have been very conscious of my health. Eating right and exercising are a big part of my daily life.