On February 13, 2002, at the age of 31, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. On this day my life forever changed. I originally found the lump in my breast over a year earlier. An ultrasound confirmed that I did have a solid lump in my breast. However, because of my age, no family history and the fact that African-American women have high cases of Fibroadenomas (a benign breast lump) – I was told to come back and have it checked in 6 months.

Six months later, I was told the same thing. At that time I was in a failing marriage and stressed by the situation of the world due to 9/11. The lump actually began to irritate me and I insisted that it be removed. Alas, I was scheduled for surgery three months later. To everyone's surprise the mass was much larger than we thought, and it was an Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. I was NOT too young for breast cancer after all. Upon hearing this news I was stunned, feeling that my life was over. Only weeks before my husband and I had finally separated. My world literally turned upside down. My family and friends were shocked at my diagnosis as well. They tried to comfort me by offering encouragement and support. I searched the internet for information on breast cancer until I felt I had actually reached the end of the net. The information I found was helpful, yet very overwhelming. I became more withdrawn, feeling like all hope was lost.

My step-father, a prostate cancer survivor, tried to assure me that cancer is NOT a death sentence. I remember him telling me that "time heals a broken heart and trouble doesn't last always." I had to stand strong on my faith. My treatment included chemotherapy and radiation. The treatment regimen was tough, but I gained this inner strength that I never knew I had. My renewed faith gave me the will to keep going. With the support of my family and friends and the use of resources and services provided by the American Cancer Society, I was able to work during treatment and try to keep my life as normal as possible. It was very important for me to show my boys how their mommy handled adversity and was able to overcome.

SEVEN years later, I reflect back on what my dad told me and I see it as the truth. It has not been an easy journey. I met some wonderful women along the way and unfortunately, lost several friends as well. I myself was diagnosed with cancer again in April 2004 – this time Hodgkin's Lymphoma and I am currently in treatment again for advanced breast cancer. Yet another test of faith and I decided to STAND. We have to praise Him in the good times and the bad. I am reminded that it's the time in the valley that makes us stronger and helps us appreciate the mountain tops.

I now live by the motto – Live Well, Laugh Freely and Celebrate Much! I enjoy traveling, spending time with the special people in my life and helping others through their cancer diagnosis and treatment. I now know that KNOWLEDGE IS POWER and we have to be advocates for our own health care. I share my story every opportunity I can in hopes that it may make a difference in someone's life.


With sincere thanks......

Dana Robinson