Sandy Jackson
Survivor
Hi! My name is Sandy Jackson and this is my journey. I have recently been diagnosed with Breast Cancer for a second time. After 17 years of being cancer-free, cancer was able to sneak back into my body. The silly thing is, it’s in the same breast. WOW! Seventeen years ago, in January 2006, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Breast Cancer. I found out that I had Breast Cancer the same week I found out that I was pregnant. As a first-time mom receiving a cancer diagnosis, I put all my faith and trust in God. I knew that I was going to keep my baby and whatever was to happen, God was in control. I had a lumpectomy in March of 2006 and began four rounds of chemotherapy during my second trimester. My son was born 2 ½ months prematurely and he spent a month in the NICU. As soon as he was released, I went right back to my chemo regimen. I finished my second round of treatments in December 2006 and began six weeks of radiation treatment beginning in January 2007. My 3rd round and final round of chemotherapy treatments begin in February of 2007 for 9 months. I’ve had test after test, blood drawn so many times I’ve lost count. I’ve had mammograms like I was supposed to and have done everything my doctors have told me to do. This year, in May 2023, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer for the second time. Between 2006 and 2023, I have been raising my autistic son as a single mom. Believe me, it has not been easy. Our journey has been a rough journey but it has also been a wonderful journey. I would not change it for anything in the world. I know God has a plan because He brought US through this before and I believe He will do it again. I KNOW He will do it again!
I had a Double Mastectomy on July 25, 2023, my son’s 17th birthday. I was asked if I wanted to change the date, I said no, because I see this as OUR journey. This was a symbolic date for US and I am happy and grateful for how OUR life has given US this journey. Yes, I was mad and upset that my cancer came back, but you know, I can’t change what has happened. God is in control of my life and the plans He has for me, only He knows. I am thankful that I am still around to be here for my son. I am about to begin a year-long chemotherapy with a 17-year autistic child who just begin his Senior year of high school. I smile, because not only does God help me, my son brings me so much laughter and Joy!
Sandy Jackson
17-year Breast Cancer Survivor
New diagnosis in 2023