Valparaiso resident Karen Nelson is a breast cancer survivor. Despite having gone through a hard battle, Nelson used the experience as a growing one rather than a negative one. Nelson used a positive attitude and faith to guide her through the journey.
“The hardest part is what you’re going to say to your family and friends,” said Nelson. “I never doubted I was going to do well. I have very strong faith – God walked me through it every single step.”
Nelson’s first step was a normal mammogram in April of 2019. Two months later, she started showing symptoms including a lump in her armpit. Then in July, Nelson was officially diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer.
“It was a bit of a surprise to find out it was triple-negative breast cancer because it usually happens to African American or Latino women who are younger,” said Nelson. “I don't fit any of those categories, so it was a bit of a surprise it was that type because it's an aggressive type.”
Nelson started getting chemotherapy and radiation treatments at Northwest Health - Porter the following month. Her last chemotherapy treatment took place in December. A couple months later in February, Nelson would have a lumpectomy. Finally, in April, Nelson would finish up her radiation treatments, becoming cancer free.
“I had a great support system,” said Nelson. “I knew that wasn't going to be an issue, so I breezed through it.”
Nelson was able to come out a survivor with the support of many people, whether through meals or praying for her. Her family and friends also helped Nelson with whatever she needed.
“Surround yourself with positive people who are willing to support you,” said Nelson.
Advocating for yourself and others, Nelson advises, is important when fighting cancer.
“The most important thing is to advocate for yourself and for others,” said Nelson. “Once you're through it, then advocate for others who might not be as fortunate as you are.”
There are plenty of resources, especially locally, to use, whether it is Phil’s Friends in Crown Point or the nurse navigators at your physician’s office. Nelson believes that more people should take advantage of the resources that are available.
“I think it's very, very important to reach out,” said Nelson. “Do not feel ashamed to rely on others to get you through it. I think it helps bring people closer to God because they're also relying on a higher power to get you through it.”
Helping others is a part of who Nelson is as well. She is a cook for Westchester Neighbors Food Pantry in Chesterton, and she has also worked with NeighborLink with United Way Northwest Indiana. Her urge to help others did not stop while she fought cancer.
“I would go to chemotherapy and look at other patients there,” said Nelson. “I almost wanted to get up and help them because they weren't doing as well as me. I feel like I was blessed.”
Now as a survivor, Nelson imparts to not see cancer as an end, but as a journey.
"Don't fret, worry and think the world is ending because it's not," said Nelson. "Your journey is just beginning, and you do get through it."