Cameo: Gina Hansen, A Breast Cancer Warrior’s Journey of Strength and Resilience
Gina shares her story of overcoming stage two ER-positive breast cancer while raising four teenagers as a single mom.
Because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Belle Curve Stories is sharing inspiring stories of survivors who have demonstrated incredible grit, grace, and growth throughout their journeys. We are truly honored to share these stories. For our regular subscribers, you’ll notice a slight change in format. These features, which we’re calling "Cameos," are presented in a Q&A style. In our third “Cameo,” we spoke with Gina Hansen, leasing agent with Rise Bartram Park, mother of four teens, and former New Yorker, now living in Saint John’s, Florida.
Gina, thank you for taking the time to share your story. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you discovered you had breast cancer?
Sure. I’m Gina Hansen, I’m 53 years old, and I’ve been a breast cancer warrior for almost two years now. My journey started in October a couple of years ago. I’ve always been diligent about getting my annual mammograms since I was 36, especially because my mom is a breast cancer survivor herself. During that particular mammogram, they spotted something unusual and suggested I undergo an MRI and a biopsy. To be honest, I wasn’t overly worried at that point. It all felt routine, and I just took things as they came. However, the week after Thanksgiving, I received the call confirming it was cancer.
How did you react to the news?
I broke down, of course. I immediately called my sister, and we met up quickly. My parents lived a few hours away, and I needed some time to process everything before telling them, especially my mom. It was important for me to gather myself and research the diagnosis before sharing the news. I also reached out to my childhood friend, Lynette (also a warrior) and a big advocate in NYC and my friend, Melissa, who accompanied me to interview the surgeons so that I had all the knowledge for diagnosis, surgery and treatment.
You mentioned your mother is a breast cancer survivor. Did you get tested for the BRCA gene?
Yes, I did. I was tested for the BRCA gene, but the results were negative. My mom had a different type of breast cancer than mine, and thankfully, I didn’t inherit the gene. My diagnosis was stage two, ER-positive. The tumors were small but there were three and they said it was aggressive.
As a single mom of four teenagers, how did you approach telling your children?
That was one of the hardest things I had to do. My biggest fear was the unknown. Would I get sick? Would I lose my hair? I didn't want to scare them, but I knew I had to be honest. My oldest son, Nicholas, was 16 at the time, and he was heartbroken. He cried and told me it wasn't fair. My youngest, Charlotte, who is a twin, was also very emotional. My two middle daughters were more reserved, but they were all incredibly supportive in their own ways.
What were the next steps after your diagnosis?
I had to find a surgeon quickly, and thankfully everything seemed to align perfectly. Within ten days, I was able to meet with three different surgeons to discuss my options. They all recommended surgery before the new year. I was a bit hesitant because the holidays were approaching and my twins’ birthday and my other daughter’s birthday are all in December, just before Christmas. Plus, I was supposed to be in a friend’s wedding on December 22nd.
Did you postpone the surgery because of the holidays?
No, I decided to go ahead with it. I was a bridesmaid in my friend’s wedding on December 22nd, the day before my surgery. I just decided life doesn’t stop for cancer, and I wanted to celebrate with my family and be there for my friend’s wedding. I chose to have a double mastectomy, even though the surgeon suggested a single mastectomy with an implant later. I’ve always wanted “nice boobs,” and knowing the high chances of recurrence, I decided to get both breasts removed. The surgery was scheduled for December 23rd, which also happened to be my oldest daughter’s 14th birthday. It was a whirlwind of emotions, but I knew it was the best decision.
How was your recovery?
It was surprisingly smooth. I woke up in the hospital on Christmas Eve morning and was able to get out of bed and walk to the bathroom without assistance. I had some pain, but it was manageable with medication. I stayed in the hospital for one day and took six weeks off work to recover. The first ten days were the toughest; it was a slow process regaining strength and adjusting to the changes in my body. But I made sure to stay active, walking around as much as I could to prevent blood clots. I was fortunate to have a relatively easy physical recovery, but emotionally and mentally, it was challenging.
What were some of the emotional challenges you faced during your recovery?
One of the most difficult moments was putting on an outfit for a New Year’s Eve party, just nine days after my surgery. I bought a tank top, but when I put it on and saw my reflection in the mirror — seeing my breastbone with no cleavage—it was a jarring experience. It was a stark reminder of what I had been through and brought up many emotions. It took me a while to come to terms with my new body image.
Did you require chemotherapy or radiation after surgery?
I was spared from chemotherapy, which was an incredible blessing. I did, however, undergo six weeks of radiation therapy, five days a week. I managed to continue working throughout the treatment. I was fatigued, but thankfully, it wasn’t as bad as I had feared.
Looking back on your journey, what would you say are some of the most important lessons you've learned?
This whole experience has been incredibly transformative. I’ve learned the true meaning of patience and realized I’m much stronger than I ever thought possible. My faith has been my anchor, and I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff. Life is precious, and we shouldn’t wait for a wake-up call to appreciate it.
Woody’s proposal to Gina in May 2024 is captured in the video above.
Your positive outlook is inspiring. How has it impacted your life since your diagnosis?
It has definitely helped me focus on the good. I have a great job that I love, amazing friends and family, and I even found love after my diagnosis. I met my fiancé, Woody, online, and we’re getting married in April! Life has taken an unexpected but beautiful turn.
What advice would you give to other women who have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer?
First, allow yourself to feel everything. Don’t bottle up your emotions. It’s okay to be scared, angry, or sad. Reach out for support. Talk to your loved ones, join support groups, connect with other survivors. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and research your options. There are so many resources available, including financial assistance. Sharing my story has helped me immensely, and it might help you too. Remember, you are not alone, and it will be okay.
You mentioned financial assistance. Can you elaborate on that?
Many people don’t realize the extent of financial support available for women with breast cancer. Whether you’re a business owner or not, there are organizations in every state that can help with various expenses related to treatment and recovery. You can find these resources online or through your healthcare provider.
Your story is incredibly powerful. Have you shared it publicly before?
Yes, I have. I was contacted by a Jeannie Blaylock from First Coast News. She got my name from the In The Pink Foundation, which is a local foundation here in Jacksonville Beach, and she reached out to me and asked me if I wanted to do an interview. Initially, I hesitated because I felt others had it worse than me. But the Jeannie reminded me that every story is important. The interview was aired, and I was surprised and humbled to receive a $5,000 donation from a local Subaru dealership for being their spotlight story. Sharing my story publicly has allowed me to connect with and support other women going through similar challenges.
What are your hopes for the future?
I’m looking forward to my wedding and continuing to live life to the fullest. I want to focus on my health, my family, and my relationship. I’m also passionate about supporting other breast cancer warriors and spreading awareness. I believe everything happens for a reason, and my journey has taught me to appreciate every moment.
As told to and edited by Teresa Bellock and Sandra Ditore.
Gina Hansen, 53, is a leasing agent with Rise Bartram Park, a proud single mother of four teenagers, and a bride-to-be. Originally from Staten Island, New York, Gina relocated with her children to Saint John's, Florida, in 2019. She is actively involved in her teens’ school activities and hobbies. Drawing strength from her spirituality, Gina believes in living life to the fullest. Now engaged to Woody, she looks forward to an exciting future ahead. You can follow Gina on Instagram @blueyz211.
