Breast cancer survivor draws strength from faith, community

After caring for her mother, who was diagnosed with Stage Two breast cancer in April 2012, Kingston-born practical nurse Diana Walters-Heron began getting regular mammograms. Her elder sister, Jackie, was diagnosed in December 2016 and, years later, Walters-Heron faced the same disease at 51. Now cancer-free, Walters-Heron credits her faith, family’s love and the sisterhood of Jamaica Reach to Recovery (JR2R) with helping her through treatment and recovery.

The 53-year-old describes her life before her own diagnosis as stable and fulfilling, centred on her family, church, friends, and work. In May 2024, she discovered a lump that was initially identified as a temporary cyst. When it returned in November, a biopsy was ordered. In March 2025, at 51, she was diagnosed with Stage Zero breast cancer, specifically ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

“Hearing the diagnosis was devastating,” she recalled. “Sitting in that doctor’s office as the words left his mouth, the tears just started to flow.”

Despite the shock, Walters-Heron said she was determined to fight. Having lost her mother, five aunts and her elder sister, Jackie, to breast cancer, she asked her doctor on the day of her diagnosis to remove both breasts, although the cancer was found in only one.

When she shared the news with her husband, Clive, they knelt in prayer. His response strengthened her resolve.

“We are all in this together. We are not giving in, and we are fighting,” he told her.

The support continued throughout her surgery (bilateral mastectomy) and recovery. Her colleagues ensured that she and her family were cared for, whether by preparing and delivering meals or supporting her husband and daughters. Others called and visited to ensure she had what she needed.

“Indeed, God showed up for me!” Walters-Heron added, reflecting on the kindness that helped ease her recovery. Choosing to focus on gratitude and faith, she decided not to allow the diagnosis to define her life.

Although the experience affected her daily routine and her ability to manage the lifting and turning required in her nursing work, Walters-Heron said her relationship with her husband grew stronger. Her confidence also remained intact.

“I am still beautiful without my breasts, and my confidence remains unshakeable,” she affirmed. “I walk with my head held high because I know I am fearfully and wonderfully made; I am God’s masterpiece.”

Her appreciation for emotional support alongside medical care stems in part from her relationship with JR2R, which she first encountered while accompanying her mother to its monthly meetings. The kindness she witnessed stayed with her and, when she received her own diagnosis, she knew where to turn.

Through JR2R, Walters-Heron found a sisterhood that rallied around her with hospital visits, medication errands, prayers and regular check-ins. The organisation also supports the families of deceased members, ensuring they are not left to grieve alone.

“The survivors in JR2R inspire and motivate me daily, and I wake up energised by their collective love,” she said, describing the organisation as a living expression of the reassurance found in the hymn No Never Alone.

Walters-Heron is also passionate about JR2R’s flagship fundraiser, Pink Run, which helps fund support for breast cancer patients facing medical expenses such as scans, blood tests, medication and compression sleeves.

She is encouraging Jamaicans at home and abroad to participate in or contribute to the Pink Run on October 25 at Emancipation Park, noting that the funds can be critical for patients struggling to afford essential care.

Committed to raising awareness about early detection, she also advises people to seek medical attention when they notice changes and discuss appropriate screening with their healthcare providers.

“Early detection saves lives. If you have just been diagnosed, remember that it is not a death sentence. Listen to your doctors, do what you have to do and, most of all, trust God,” she shared.

Now cancer-free, Walters-Heron said the experience has humbled her and changed how she approaches life. “I no longer take anything for granted.”

Grateful for the opportunity to continue serving God and loving others, she hopes her story will encourage patients to seek care, embrace support, and hold on to hope.

lifestyle@gleanerjm.com