JAN REDD

FAMILY: Husband of 54 years, Danny Redd; son Dale Redd (wife Sony); daughter Robin Redd Thomas (husband Ricky); grandchildren Aja Redd, Reid Thomas and Whitney Thomas Riley (husband Dan)

OCCUPATION: Retired personnel assistant, Aiken Regional Medical Centers

DIAGNOSED: Sept. 28, 2001, and May 11, 2007

WHAT HELPED: Surgery, chemotherapy, family, church and friends. The Lydia Project has been a wonderful source. They send notes and let me know they care and are praying for me. Meeting with the Pink Ribbonettes every month: We can share with each other our concerns, and we have good speakers that educate us on different subjects that we may not be aware in our own community. Just being with other breast cancer survivors is a thrill -- that we can share our thoughts and love for each other.

OUTLOOK: I feel that my personal relationship with Jesus Christ, prayers and positive attitude have brought me through all the treatments twice. Never lose your faith, and never forget God's love to you.

ADVICE: Have your mammogram every year. Get the right treatment plan. Stay positive. Get rest and exercise. Read good books. Listen to music. Let others help you; this is your time to be pampered so you will be well on the road to recovery.

PERSONAL: After a mammogram in August 2001, I was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma on Sept. 28, 2001. I had a lumpectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiation through June 2002. I had mammograms every year after that. On May 11, 2007, the report was positive for cancer recurring. I had bilateral total mastectomies with reconstruction in June 2007. I started chemo again for six more treatments. My last one was March 18.

OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH