Shannon's Story from New Hampshire

My name is Shannon. I am a 28 year-old living with breast cancer. The long and short of it is that I was diagnosed on 8/31/06, and I underwent many surgeries after finding out I had the gene mutation for breast cancer.

We thought I'd be cancer free- I had some chest pain after my last reconstructive surgery 5/01/07 - which shed light on the fact that breast cancer had made its way to my lungs. I am going to Boston in two weeks to talk to them about a new chemo regiment. I am so VERY anxious to get it going!

I have continued to be strong and positive and found it most important to LAUGH! I am a firm believer in positive thinking and that laughter can be the best medicine!

My story is in GREAT detail on www.breastcancerstories.com/Under 30/Shannon, I encourage any and all to read. It has been a great site for me to release... but to also keep friends, family, doctors, nurses, co-workers and customers- up to date on my progress. People have told me its made them cry... and made them laugh...I prefer the latter!

I have been through so much in the past not even a year, and have been told I've touched so many people, though THEY are the ones that have touched me with their thoughts, prayers, hugs and smiles. I am strong for not only me- but for them and my most wonderful husband Todd.

I too will continue to spread awareness to help with prevention, support and most of all- to let people know that this isn't the end! Last October- one month after my diagnosis and five days after my first chemo treatment- I comprised a team of over 30 for the Making Strides for Breast Cancer walk in Nashua NH. Our team raised over $3,600 in the short period of time. I could not have been more proud! I wasn't able to walk, but my husband pushed me in a wheel chair. This year I will walk it strong, and we will raise even more - for a cause that I hold so dear to me! Again, thank you for this opportunity!!

Milford, New Hampshire