Shelley's Story

They say that lightning never strikes twice in the same place. But if you were to ask Independent Senior Sales Director Shelley Haslett of Vernon, BC, she would have something to say about that.

That’s because at the age of 41, Shelley – who had no history of breast cancer in her family – found a lump in her right breast during a routine mammogram. After a biopsy and lumpectomy, she was treated with nine rounds of chemotherapy and 16 days of radiation in the hopes it would not return.

“Since the side effects of chemotherapy can vary from woman to woman, I was lucky not to lose my hair. Yes, I was exhausted, but I was able to take the time I needed to get well.”

With cancer and treatment behind her, Shelley was soon back in fighting form. But reality hit once again when, a decade later, Shelley found a large lump in her left breast. This time the diagnosis led to a double mastectomy and subsequent full breast reconstruction. Quick to focus on the positive, Shelley says: “I am so fortunate it was confined to the breasts,” adding with a laugh: “With breast reconstruction I got a ‘tummy tuck’ – free!”

 While Shelley’s daughters – Paige and Colleen – were a source of unending support, she says her top priority during her battle with cancer was to ensure their lives did not change. Her rock throughout the entire experience was her husband, Al, who “was there every step of the way”.

But it was also the care and concern of her Mary Kay family that helped her through this difficult time.

“I can’t even begin to explain the kind of support I received. From cards and notes from my Mary Kay sisters across the country offering kind words and inspiration to the president of the Company personally calling me to see how I was doing,” says Shelley, adding with a laugh. “I received so much mail that the mail lady thought I was famous!”

Shelley credits her positive attitude, which she learned from her years in Mary Kay, for her recovery.

“A positive attitude goes a long way during the tough times. Look at the good things. I realized how many friends I had and how much they all cared about me. I didn’t have to die to find this out!” she says. “I was going to get through this and be stronger when it was all done.”

Now cancer-free, Shelley has advice for those women just diagnosed with the disease.

“Be very proactive.  Keep track of everything that is happening.  Join a support group if need be.  You have lots of options and you need to do what is right for you.  You are not alone and you will get through this.  There is life after cancer.”

When asked about her future, Shelley is happy to share the dreams she has.

“I want to complete a triathlon (swim, bike and run) with the ultimate goal of participating in an Ironman competition before I’m 60.” She says, adding. “I’d also like to semi-retire and take extended vacations to tons of places, including Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Greece and Hawaii with my husband. And, of course, I want to see my daughters (who are now adults) get married and have children so I can be a grandma!”

After weathering the storm, Shelley is definitely looking forward to each new day and the sunshine it brings along with it.