Linnea's Story

My name is Linnea Johnston I am a thirty six year old mother, sister, wife, daughter and two and a half year breast cancer survivor.

I have an Amazon Heart. When I heard about this event I was filled with the excitement of sharing this adventure with other strong women. I feel it is important to let other young women know that they are not alone when confronted with huge obstacles-whether it be breast cancer or any other life changing event.

I have been riding my own Harley for seventeen years. I traded a truck for it and taught myself how to ride. I’ve always wanted to go on a long road trip but never had. This is a chance in a lifetime. I usually ride alone. The enjoyment of listening to the 1000cc engine of my ’85 Sportster roar and the pride I feel riding my shimmering deep purple/pink metallic and chrome hog is second to none. I feel so strong when I ride.

My cancer story is simple really. We caught it early- it was the size of a pea. After finding the pea, I had mammograms, sonograms, a needle-core-sample biopsy and a lumpectomy. The pea was stage I DCIS breast cancer. I decided on a bilateral modified mastectomy with selective lymph node dissection. This was followed by six months of mild chemotherapy. After that I had reconstructive surgery and had both ovaries removed.

I am young, strong, and healthy. There is no history of breast cancer in my family. I don’t smoke, do drugs, or over drink. I work out, drink water and live a great life. I been sky diving and bungee jumping, I have a cool tattoo, look pretty good naked, I have great hair, can belly dance and I can use a firearm, sew, bake and garden. I am the warrior princess my eight year old son believes me to be.

My trip through CancerLand has taught me to be brave, humble, ask for help and love life everyday. I revel in silliness. I realize now who my true friends are and how important family is. All the pain I went through reminded me I am still alive. I am here for my husband and my son. I have learned to not sweat the small stuff and not dwell on trivial things. Life is too short. I have learned my limitations. My soul has been re-kindled. I am finding my strengths. I am once again happy. I am thankful to be alive. A favourite quote from Maya Angelou that I feel best reflects me as a young breast cancer survivor is:

Having courage does not mean that we are unafraid.
Having courage and showing courage means we face our fears.
We are able to say, “I have fallen, but I will get up.”