Janice Hawkins

I was diagnosed 6-21-17 with Stage I breast cancer which was detected early on my annual mammogram.  I cannot stress enough how important it is for all women over the age of 40 to get their mammograms done and at an earlier age if you have a family history of breast cancer.  I was totally shocked when I heard those words……………there were some cancerous cells in your biopsy!  I had NO family history whatsoever and had not “felt” a lump or anything either.  Fortunately we discovered it early as it was an aggressive type!  I was devastated!  How could I go through this!  I had a busy life and a great life with a great husband, two grown daughters and two granddaughters with another one on the way in a few months (I have been blessed with a fourth granddaughter since)!  I took very little time to feel sorry for myself, instead I told myself I could do this!  I was strong in my Christian faith and knew the Lord would see me through along with my large support group of family and friends.  I started chemo on 7-20-17 and took four rounds followed by a double mastectomy, reconstruction and another three rounds of a different chemo after surgery.  The whole treatment/recovery process was completed over about 18 months.  It was the hardest thing I have ever faced and do not wish it on anyone.  I was very fortunate and handled all the treatments very well and was able to finish exactly as planned.  I had wonderful support from several ladies (all younger than me) that had been through the fight and were very helpful in answering questions, etc.  You hear it all the time that attitude is 99% of your recovery and I believe that 100%.  I never sat at home and felt sorry for myself.  I kept myself busy with a full time job and spending all the time I could with my girls, son-in-laws and granddaughters! I have now been cancer free for almost three years!  If someone were to ask me for my tips for tackling this dreadful disease, I would say:  1.  Keep your faith in God, 2. Stay positive and 3.  Stay active- try to keep your normal day to day routine as best you can. The picture below are all the reasons why I couldn’t give up and I had to stay positive. They are my reasons why and I’m thankful to God that I still have them and they still have me.