Jolene is a breast cancer survior and this is her 4th year participating in the Susan G. Komen walk for the cure! She lives in Robbinsdale with her husband Ray.

Jolene has challended herself to raise $7,500 for this year's walk!

In November of 2001, I lost my mother after two bouts with breast cancer--she was 66 when she was diagnosed and just 68 when she died. On August 24, 2007, I was stunned to hear my doctor deliver the news... "It's breast cancer." I was 36...and at the beginning of a life-changing journey.

There were many days when I was scared and angry that my mom could not be there to help me face this challenge. And, of course, my biggest fear was (and still is) that breast cancer would get the better of me, too. But I was not going to accept my diagnosis passively--having a cancer diagnosis does not have to make you a VICTIM!

I have spent hours upon hours researching and reading information in magazines, books and online. In fact, I continue to actively research information such as modifying my lifestyle to reduce chances of recurrence, drug interactions that affect the hormone-blocking medication I am taking, and the mind-body-spirit connection. As my husband said, "Cancer is now your life-long friend." Although it was intended tongue-in-cheek, he couldn't have been closer to the truth. Although I can't say I consider cancer a friend, my experience has had a permanent impact on my identity and the choices I make daily...hopefully for the better (I like to think so!)

So, after many hours of research, a lumpectomy, radiation and on-going hormone-blocking treatment, I have been able to embrace a sense of Renewed Hope. I miss my mom every day but the day my oncologist said, "...and by the way, you're healthy!" I knew I had won a victory for us both.