Nina's Story

Hi, my name is Antoenina (Nina) Jackson, and I am a three-year Breast Cancer survivor. I was one of the Breast Cancer poster members for the 2024 Race for the Ribbon. I’d like to share a little bit about myself and how the West Virginia Breast Health Initiative has helped me and so many others.

I was born with Cerebral Palsy and have lived with constant pain my entire life. Five years ago, I was diagnosed with Lupus, and about four years ago, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I didn’t know what to do, so I faced it on my own. After completing chemotherapy and radiation—and continuing to be checked every three to four months—a wonderful woman named Donna DeHart from the West Virginia Breast Health Initiative called me and asked if I would be on their poster for that year.

I had two weeks to decide, but I said yes right away, even though it pushed me far outside my comfort zone. During my battle with Breast Cancer, I no longer felt like myself. I stayed inside, rarely talked to anyone except close family and friends, and stopped taking pictures of myself. I just wasn’t me anymore.

The West Virginia Breast Health Initiative helped me find my way back to myself. They truly care and will help in any way they can, offering 100 percent support. That support means everything—especially when you’re going through Breast Cancer or even afterward, when it feels like the rest of the world has moved on. They stay in touch, check on how you’re doing, and plan activities to help you get out, relax, and not think about cancer or life’s challenges, even if just for a little while.

I love the West Virginia Breast Health Initiative so much. If they called me today and asked me to do anything, I would say yes without hesitation. I don’t just see them as an organization—I see them as family. They truly are the best.