October 2006 I was diagnosed with bi-lateral stage 2 breast cancer. As you can imagine, this was a very scary time in my life. Two surgeries, 16 weeks of chemo and 7 weeks of radiation, and now 6 years later I remain cancer free! I had wonderful support from my family and friends to get through this difficult time in my life, but I also believe that a positive attitude is a must when going through cancer! My first chemo treatment was two weeks before Christmas and my hair fell out one week before Christmas. Needless to say, I was very self concious about my family seeing me bald for the first time, but I went with a santa hat on my head (no wig) and it was one of the best Christmas' I ever had. One of our family friends showed up at my parents house with a santa hat on his head also, and when he took his hat off, he was bald too! He shaved his head just so I wouldn't be the only one bald! What a great guy! So, anyone who is going through a similar situation, surround yourself with positive people, keep your head up and stay strong!! You ARE beautiful!!!

Debbie Pounds
Howell, MI