Candice Jaeger; diagnosed in 2000 at age 24; wife, mother; Illinois

"I have always tried to live and eat healthily. Still, I found a lump in my breast. I had a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. Since I am the mother of two daughters and have two granddaughters, I participated in a clinical study. I thought that if my participation could help at least one other person, it would all be worth while."
Nancy Ellis; diagnosed in 2000 at age 53; quality technician; New York

"One year ago I was diagnosed
My life turned upside down
How do I feel about that?
I don't know.
Happy to be alive
I would be dead
If not for the check-up
How do I feel about that?
Grateful."
Cheryl Wilkinson; diagnosed in 1999 at age 45; fast food; Ohio

"From the beginning, set your mind on one thought: I will beat this. It will not beat me."
Susan Schultz; diagnosed in 1990 at age 41; special education teacher's aide; New York

"What worked for me? Never ever, ever thinking I would not survive."
Eleanor Anbinder; diagnosed in 1991 at age 50; sales manager; Massachusetts

Copyright © 2001 by Barbara Delinksy Charitable Foundation for Breast Cancer Research.