My name is C. J. Walker, and I am a two-time cancer survivor. In 2005 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After a year, my cancer returned again more aggressively. The doctor told me I would have to have a mastectomy and five months of chemotherapy. It was then my whole life changed.
The first thing I did was pray. Then I told myself not to give up. The doctors asked me what my future plans were. I told them if I had to complete five months of chemotherapy, my goal would be to train for the Women’s Four Miler and run it faster than the previous year. I knew that I could make it, and I did.
Even though it’s been hard at times, I know that I am very blessed. My husband Chris and our seven-year-old daughter Makayla have played a big part in this journey. Makayla said to me, "Mommy, it hurts to see you having to do chemo and having two parents without hair, because Daddy cut all his hair off. But you are still beautiful and Daddy and I will always take care of you."
It's 2008 now, and I know that my cheerleaders are waiting to cheer me and my running partner Dawn Burris on to the finish line. Once again, look out because here we come!