Linda Hinton     Age 59     Hollidaysburg, Blair County

Occupation : Kelly Services

Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 1987.  The diagnosis was lobular breast cancer.

Linda found a lump on her left breast while taking a shower.  After having a biopsy, she was diagnosed with cancer and underwent a modified radial mastectomy on her left breast just two week before Thanksgiving in 1987.  She was fortunate that her diagnosis was early and there was no spread to her lymph nodes.  No spread of the cancer, in her case, meant no further treatment was necessary.  Linda had reconstructive surgery after her mastectomy and continues to have yearly mammograms, or if needed, more frequently.

The biggest thing Linda learned from her experience is, ‘ It is so important to get checked yearly by your gynecologist and have mammograms.  Do self exams.  Ask more questions and keep your sense of humor.”  And, most importantly, Linda wants everyone to know what breast cancer is treatable.

When Linda was diagnosed, she had two small children and she knows she was so fortunate to have the love and support of family and friends.  Linda is now a 21+ year breast cancer survivor.  Linda believes in spreading the word of hope and is a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer supporter as well as a 2009 committee member.