Faith, Fight, and Healing: The Survivor Journey of Shanna Hughes

In the heart of Daytona Beach, Florida, lives a woman whose story radiates courage, grace, and unshakable faith — Shanna Hughes. At just 36 years old, Shanna faced a battle that would change her life forever. After recovering from thyroid surgery, she received news that would shake anyone to the core — a diagnosis of two different breast cancers in one breast.

It was a moment that tested her faith, but it was also the moment that began her testimony.

A Journey of Shock, Strength, and Support

When Shanna first heard the words “You have breast cancer,” her emotions swirled between shock, anxiousness, and worry. But God, in His sovereignty, surrounded her with community — family, friends, and church members — who became her foundation of support.

Through conversations with loved ones and guidance from her faith circle, she began to prepare not just for treatment, but for transformation. “After speaking to my family and having supportive friends and coworkers, I was able to connect with friends and church members who were able to guide me,” she shared.

Though no specific scripture stood out to her during the process, Shanna was rooted in a quiet confidence: “I knew my Father had me protected and I would follow His lead.”

Healing in Every Dimension

Cancer doesn’t just touch the body — it challenges the spirit, the emotions, and one’s identity. Shanna described her healing process as difficult in all aspects: physical, emotional, and spiritual.

“I’ve never been so consistently reminded of how my life has changed,” she reflected. “The things I would like to do, eat, and wear — even how I felt — would not be the same.”

But even in the struggle, she found purpose. Through every change, she learned to cherish herself, love her body again, and embrace a new kind of beauty — one defined not by appearance, but by endurance.

Rediscovering Purpose and Self-Love

Surviving breast cancer gave Shanna a new lens through which to view her life.

“Becoming a breast cancer survivor has made me look at my personal life much closer,” she said. “I take pride in the individual I am and ensure to myself — if not anybody — that I am who and what matters the most.”

Her words echo the truth of Psalm 139:14 — “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Shanna learned that survival isn’t just about overcoming illness — it’s about rediscovering your worth, your purpose, and the God-given beauty of your identity.

Encouragement for Other Warriors

To other women walking through the valley of diagnosis or supporting someone they love, Shanna’s advice is both practical and profound:

“Ask ALL the questions you can think of. Talk about your experiences and be mindful of how your journey may have silently affected those close to you.”

Her encouragement comes from a place of empathy — she knows the weight of uncertainty and the importance of advocacy. “Yes, advocate and educate,” she emphasizes. “Advocate for yourself, and help others be educated so that no one feels alone in their fight through ANY cancer journey.”

Life After Survival

Today, Shanna honors her healing by remembering to put herself first.

“I am someone who is always thinking of others and forget that I am healing daily,” she said. “As others are important — so am I.”

Those words are a reminder to every woman reading: healing is not selfish. It’s sacred. It’s an act of faith to rest, to recover, and to prioritize your peace.

A Message of Hope

Shanna Hughes’s story is a testament to God’s covering and the power of community. Her life reminds us that even in the face of fear, faith leads the way. Her journey — marked by courage, compassion, and self-love — inspires us to slow down, check on ourselves, and never stop advocating for one another.

Because survival is not just living — it’s thriving with purpose, grace, and gratitude.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we celebrate Shanna Hughes — a warrior, a survivor, and a beacon of faith.

Check out our ‘Breast Cancer Awareness” Collection to support.