October is breast cancer awareness month. In order to honor breast cancer fighters and survivors in Clinton, The Jacket Journal decided to interview those that we knew were affected by breast cancer.

Alicia Housley is currently fighting her battle with breast cancer. Ms. Housley decided to go to the doctor when she found a lump with a self exam. She was officially diagnosed with breast cancer on February 10, 2017. The type of breast cancer Ms. Housley was diagnosed with was 2B Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Triple Negative. Alicia’s family does have a history of breast cancer. Her paternal grandmother also had cancer. Ms. Housley’s initial reaction was shock, but she mentally prepared herself and was emotionally ready to fight. She had a huge support network full of family and friends.

One thing that helped Alicia the most throughout her fight was God. She looked to him in her time of struggle. The obstacles she faced included no response to chemo. Her doctors decided to put her on a chemo pill for six months. The impact that surviving breast cancer long term had on Ms. Housley is that she believes that it definitely makes you appreciate each day more and appreciate being healthy because her good days are hit and miss.

Some advice that she would like to give women in our community is to do your yearly and monthly exams. In conclusion, one word that described Ms. Housley’s journey with breast cancer was challenging.  

It was an honor to interview Ms. Housley, her fight and determination is truly inspiring.