from staff
The Daily Record will regularly feature Jacksonville area residents in the news. This is the first in the series.
Jacksonville resident Shannon Miller, the most decorated American gymnast in history, holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and entrepreneurship from the University of Houston and her law degree form the Boston College Law School. She is facing a new challenge, chemotherapy.
What is your diagnosis and what were your symptoms?
After a routine exam uncovered a cyst on my ovary, I had a surgery to remove what turned out to be a stage 1 germ cell malignancy. Although the tumor was removed, I will begin nine weeks of preventative chemotherapy. The scariest thing is that there were absolutely no symptoms. If I had not gone in for this routine exam, I would not be looking at such a successful prognosis.
What is your prognosis?
I am blessed with an extremely positive prognosis. I am currently cancer-free, but the chemotherapy gives me the best chance to remain that way.
What is your course of treatment?
I begin my chemotherapy regimen today. The course is three, three-week cycles. The first week is five straight days, then one day each of the next two weeks before the cycle starts over.
What role will your focus on health play in your recovery?
As a health and fitness advocate, I know that it’s important for all women to make their health a priority. Almost everyone has been touched by cancer and many of us simply need more information and support. I’ve devoted an entire section on shannonmillerlifestyle.com to chemotherapy. I will be sharing my personal thoughts throughout my journey and have partnered with others to provide important information for those that are facing this battle.
What is the message you are sharing with the public?
No one should have to go through this alone. We can support each other, communicate and share our stories and insight. With every story shared, we grow stronger and less fearful. My message is simple. Do not delay, do not reschedule. Early detection saves lives.