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Hi, my name is Jan. Let me take you through my history thus far. I was originally diagnosed with Breast Cancer in May of '98. I had a lumpectomy at that time & was told to return in 3 months to follow up. When I returned in August, the lump had reformed to its original size (golf ball or 5CM). Another needle biopsy done & it was confirmed to be cancer. I had to decide at that point what course to take because of my strong family history. I opted for a bilateral mastectomy. All of this happened 2 months after I married myself for my 40th birthday. I went through a 6-month regiment of chemotherapy due to the aggressiveness of the tumor. I tend to describe 1998 as one helluva year. I turned 40, married myself at a huge birthday party, gained 15 minutes of national & international fame, and lost both of my breasts and all of my hair. Whew, what a year!! I had reconstructive surgery in 1999 - that's when I got my new Rainbows, as I like to call them. I thought I was on a new path in my life. Until 2000 when the cancer returned with a vengeance under my right implant. After 3 months of chemo and 7 weeks of radiation, again I thought I was out of the woods. Until 2002 I had lymph nodes removed from my collar-bone (cancerous). 2003 more lymph nodes removed from my right side (still cancerous). 2004 Metastasized to the left side - lymph node removed from my jugular vein. I decided that this cancer likes me and I am stuck sharing my body with it. I began writing a book in 2000 because I realized then that if I had not accepted myself as I did in 1998 I would not have the strength, wisdom or perseverance to grow through this disease. I am a Witness Role model, which means that I often go into churches, communities or schools and give my testimony on Breast Cancer. We try to educate women of all ages and races about doing their breast self exams and talking with doctors and empowering themselves with knowledge that could save their lives. There are no strangers in my world, the one 'good' thing that I can tell you cancer does, is brings together the most unlikely pairings. Cancer knows no color and therefore I will not let myself know any either. With cancer we are all Sisters in Survival. I know that God has blessed me to be here as long as I have been and I thank Him every day. I have 3 beautiful children whom have come to understand that everyday we live is a Gift from God. I have also been blessed to see the births of two grandchildren. I am so excited to be taking this journey with Changing Gears. I want to do as much for the cause that I can and to have a little fun on the side is thrilling. I tell people often - I play the hand that I'm dealt and keep hoping for a better card to come my way but until then, I just take it one day at a time. Forever, Just Jan Click Here to Donate Now!
Jan in the News
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