Janet M. Lee
Janet M. Lee
Diagnosed at 36 – 2.5-Year Survivor
YouTube Channel: @ivyleeco https://
Instagram: @ivyleeco https://
Developing cancer was the last thing on my mind — but once it came, it became the main thing in my life, not in a negative way, but in a surprisingly positive one.
It started when I found a lump in my breast while showering. Deep down, I knew right away it was most likely cancer. I was diagnosed at age 36, with four young children, with breast cancer. After tests and a biopsy confirmed it, I began treatment by having a double mastectomy.
Things didn’t go exactly as planned — a week later, I developed a blood hematoma and needed emergency surgery. I remember feeling so bad calling my doctor… especially because it was Thanksgiving morning! My sister rushed me down the freeway, sacrificing her own holiday, and I made sure to thank every hospital staff member I saw that day.
Then came chemo! As I went through treatment, I realized there were so many things I hadn’t known — especially about how to talk to my kids about what was happening. That inspired me to write my own children’s book, When My Mom Had Cancer, to help kids understand what to expect when their mom goes through treatment. Some days I’d be sitting in the chemo chair with medicine flowing into my port, and that night I’d be at home working on the story and layout. It gave me something wonderful to focus on and helped me stay positive.
After radiation, I was deeply grateful for my amazing team of doctors, nurses, and staff — and of course, my loving family. They encouraged me, kept me laughing, and even brainstormed business ideas with me. I don’t think I’ve ever made as much small talk with strangers as I did during treatment — it’s a crash course in socializing! Now, I run a small business creating children’s books, gifts, and stationery, and I have
he privilege of supporting others in their cancer journeys.
Having cancer has truly changed my life for the better. I have no fear now — life is so precious and short. There is nothing to fear in trying something new, taking leaps of faith, and choosing positivity during hard times. My hope is that women will recognize love and encouragement from others and face their own treatment and healing journeys with hope in their hearts.