Breast cancer survivor sharing her story to help others battling the disease

A Central Coast cancer survivor is sharing her story of survival hoping to help others battling the disease.

You may not be able to tell by looking at Michelle Slade and listening to what is left of her southern accent that she beat breast cancer by age 41.

“I do wake up every morning and say this is going to be the best day ever because you really do realize how precious every second of life is,” said Slade.

Slade told News Channel 5 that she was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer in December 2007. She calls the phone call from her doctor the worst Christmas present of her young life.

“It definitely was scary and I thought oh my goodness my life is over. To be only 33 years old and my little guy was only a couple years old thinking what am I going to do?”

Slade had surgery and did the full course of chemotherapy treatments.

“Cancer can take so much from you I mean I’ve lost amazing wonderful friends and family, body parts,” said Slade.

Slade knew she had to fight for her family.

“Fortunately I found my grace somewhere along the line and decided I’m going to do whatever it takes to make sure I’m around to see my little guy grow up.”

With the support of her doctors, the American Cancer Society, friends and family, Michelle is now cancer free.

“I think the bottom-line for me is community is healing and it is the power of community rallying around you that can help you step forward and have the moxie to beat it.”

Now Slade pushes her passion to prevent cancer and work to find a cure.

Slade is the inspirational speaker at the American Cancer Society’s Celebration of Life Fashion Show on Friday.

The event is being held at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To purchase tickets call 831-442-2994.