i was diagnosed almost 2 years ago, on march 24th, 2009. in the 10 days that followed, i had an MRI, met my surgeon, discussed my options, had surgery to have my port inserted, had a pet scan, met my oncologist to finalize my treatment and started chemo. looking back, i think that was the hardest part. those days were filled with uncertainty. you have so many new things thrown at you, things you have never heard of or ever wanted to hear of. in addition, you are trying to absorb the fact that a doctor has told you that most frightening of all words, "CANCER". i decided early on that this was going to make me a better person. i have a strong faith in god and was determined to give him the glory in this situation. i had (and still have) an incredible support team, from my husband and 2 daughters, to my family and friends. i have become passionate about helping other newly diagnosed women, especially young women. i was 38 when i was diagnosed and was simply shocked that someone my age could have breast cancer. i am a member of a young survivors group and hope next month to join an advocacy group that guides other women through their cancer journey. my name is jennifer lewis and i am not only a cancer survivor, i am a victor!

jennifer lewis
jacksonville, FL