Sue Devlin's list of life accomplishments at age 44 is impressive: a single mother who raised two children; a banking official who investigates fraud and money laundering; a college student earning her degree in criminal justice, and a superior athlete. Sue is on the college track team, competing with women half her age and was recently named an All America scholar athlete in track.

She also is a breast cancer survivor. "At first, I cried. Then I   realized it was another chapter in life, and I began to understand how I coped with the illness would help to write how the chapter ends," Sue admits.

Sue's family doctor, the one who insisted she have that mammogram she had repeatedly had put off, recommended she seek treatment at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. She underwent surgery to remove the tumor followed by six rounds of chemotherapy.

Sue was offered a number of options for her chemotherapy treatment. One of those options was a national research study that was looking to identify even better treatments for women just like her. 

"I chose to join the study because I wanted to make a difference for women who in the future will face breast cancer, including my daughter," Sue explained. "She is now at higher risk for the disease because of my history. I wanted to do my part for the next generation."

This non-stop Eden resident continued to train through chemotherapy treatments, although she  does admit it slowed her down some. Mentioning that the members of her college track team was waiting for her return, Sue vowed to join them, "I am going to kick some butts when I'm healthy  again."

That positive, optimistic spirit served Sue well during her treatment. "Everyone at Roswell Park made this a pleasant experience. I was never depressed and I know it sounds strange, but I actually enjoyed the process," She says.

Today, Sue continues her training, is working, and attending college. Breast cancer is just one of the challenges she faced.

Sue's message of hope for the holidays: "Make sure you follow your doctor's advice and get your annual mammogram. It can save your life. I know it saved mine."