October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. In honor of this, we interviewed Breast Cancer survivor, Rachel Calhoun of Cartersville, Ga. Rachel grew up being an extremely talented dancer. Her dancing career ended her senior year of highschool, but that’s only so she could pursue a different dream of hers. Rachel turned in those dancing shoes for an amazing nursing career. Shortly after graduating college with her BSN, Mrs. Calhoun was diagnosed with stage 2 Breast Cancer.

At what age did you find out you had breast cancer and what was your reaction?

I was 24 years old when I was diagnosed with stage 2 Breast Cancer. My initial reaction was denial, then shock, then determination to beat it.

How did you deal with treatments and emotional distress? What helped you push through?

I was constantly surrounded by loved ones to help take me where I needed to go and keep me motivated and positive. At times, I would just want to be alone to cope, but knowing I could call on someone anytime gave me peace. Sometimes I just needed to sleep, get out of the house and just go somewhere random. I really enjoyed distractions.

What year were you diagnosed Cancer free?

My treatment for Breast Cancer ended in April of 2016, at the age of 25. My new diagnoses is “cured”.

Has your outlook on life changed? What advice do you have for women to help catch this?

Life will never be the same, but it’s not always a bad thing. I am not the same person, but I like who I am. I have faced my greatest fears and was given the gift of a longer life. There will always be struggles related to this past illness, but with my amazing husband, family and friends, I know I can push through it. My advice is to know and listen to your body. Ladies, you are never too young to notice a change. If you feel a lump, contact your doctor and get it checked out.

Additional Information on Breast Cancer:

According to the CDC, 236,968 women and 2,141 men in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer. It is important to go to check ups and talk to a doctor if you notice a change with your body. To learn more about this disease, check out nationalbreastcancer.org for more information.