Before I begin my story, I want to thank God for My Life.  

My name is Da’Anne Hunt Lipscomb, and I have been a lifelong resident of Zachary. I’ve been married to my husband Jim for 45 years, and together we have three children: Gordon, Jaime, and Natalie. I served as an elementary school educator for 43 years, retiring in 2019 after my last role as principal of La Belle Aire Elementary. 

In October 2010, at 56, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I found a lump in my breast but delayed getting it checked. I was in my 34th year as a teacher, and my youngest daughter was about to get married. When a colleague noticed my worry, I immediately went to Woman’s Hospital for a mammogram, which led to a biopsy. My son Gordon, a firefighter, accompanied me, decked out in his pink Breast Cancer Awareness gear. Days later, during a conference at the Roosevelt Hotel, I got the call from my doctor: it was cancer.

I was referred to Dr. Michael Hailey, a breast specialist, and Dr. Derrick Spell, an oncologist. Despite the devastating diagnosis, I kept faith and stayed positive. A week before Natalie’s wedding, I had several lymph nodes removed for testing, which thankfully came back negative for cancer. After her wedding, I underwent a mastectomy and began radiation treatments. My family, especially Jim, my children and their spouses, supported me, and I felt surrounded by love from friends, colleagues, and my community.

For the next nine years, I was cancer-free. However, in 2019, a routine scan revealed that my cancer had metastasized to my liver. Though it was in my liver, it remained breast cancer. I learned I had the “HER 2” mutation gene, and Dr. Spell began a new treatment plan. I’ve been told there are many chemotherapies available to manage the cancer, and I remain hopeful.

Having cancer has changed me. I don’t remember what life was like before, especially before the last five years of treatment. But I’ve shifted my perspective on life, focusing on leading a happy, normal life as much as possible. I attend my grandchildren’s events, from cow shows to soccer matches. I cheer from the stands, and sing praise in church. I show up, no matter how far away or how I feel; if I can go, I will.

My faith, family, and friends keep me going. When I lost my hair, my three-year-old granddaughter rubbed my head and sweetly said, “Granna, we need to water your hair.” Moments like that give me strength. 

Cancer is a part of my life now, but it doesn’t define me. I urge everyone to stay vigilant with their health—get regular check-ups, follow up on any concerns, and never second-guess yourself. And if a diagnosis does come in, remember that it’s not your fault or your body’s fault. Remain positive, stay faithful, and take care of yourself.