Celebrating Cancer Survivor Month
Annette’s 23-Year Journey of Strength and Hope
June marks Cancer Survivor Month, a special time to honor those who have faced cancer head-on and emerged with inspiring stories of courage and resilience. Annette is a breast cancer survivor for over 20 years who continues to inspire her community with her strength, faith, and positive spirit.
Early Detection Changed Everything
Annette’s journey began on June 11, 2001, at the age of 43. “The radiologist saw something that caught his attention. I then had to have an ultrasound. The radiologist said he was 97% sure it was a fatty tissue, but my doctor wasn’t satisfied with that, and he wanted the other 3% assurance, so he consulted a cancer and disease doctor and ordered a surgical biopsy.”
Facing the Diagnosis and Seeking a Second Opinion
Waiting for biopsy results was an agonizing week. When she learned the truth, Annette recalls, “I was devastated. I needed to have a mastectomy.” But thanks to her husband’s proactive research, she sought a second opinion. The doctors explained the plan clearly: “They said the area was small (1.1 centimeters) and they explained what they would be doing; shoot dye in me to make sure the cancer wasn’t in the lymph nodes. The test was negative.”
Treatment and the Power of Family Support
In June 2001, Annette underwent a lumpectomy, followed by four rounds of chemotherapy every three weeks, which was tough. She also completed radiation treatment at Memorial Hospital Gulfport under Dr. Davidson’s care.
Her gratitude for early detection and support runs deep: “I thank God for early detection. I also thank God for the doctors, hospitals, nurses, my pastor, family, and many friends.” Even decades later, she keeps in touch with those who comforted her during the hardest moments. “I called my niece, who was only 3 or 4 at the time, my nurse. She would stay with me when I was sick and just wouldn’t leave me.”
Her family’s love was a lifeline. “My daughter shaved her head when I lost all my hair during treatment and so did my brother. They would get me out of the house so I wouldn’t sit and cry all day.” Annette also credits her workplace at the time for their overwhelming support during her fight.
Living Life After Cancer
Now, 23 years later, Annette lives with a message of hope and encouragement. “I haven’t had any treatments since then and I regularly get a mammogram. I’m nervous every time I go through a mammogram and wait for the results.” When Dr. Davidson retired, Annette was referred to Dr. Sidra Khalid, whose compassionate care has made a difference in her life. “Her bedside manners are terrific. She’s helped me live healthier and knows how to talk to you so you can understand her. She gives so much attention to each of her patients.”
Encouraging Early Detection and Support
Annette’s story reminds us to stay vigilant, support each other, and never lose hope.
If you or someone you love is due for a mammogram or cancer screening, don’t wait. Annette says it best: “Now I encourage others to get their mammograms, and I’ll take people to get their treatments.”
Memorial offers discounted mammograms and the Memorial Hospital Foundation provides financial support for those who may not be able to afford breast imaging services. Learn more by clicking the buttons below. Call (228) 867-4395 to schedule an appointment and (228) 867-4095 to request assistance from the Breast Imaging Fund