Breast cancer survivor says she was "devastated" & then took action

WEST ALLIS (WITI) -- Walking is just a form of exercise for many, but for Kelly Krohn, walking has given her a sense of empowerment and helped her heal after receiving news she never expected.

"I was pretty devastated of course and I took a deep breath and quickly called my mom and said 'you have to get here really quick and we have to figure out a plan,'" said Krohn.

Krohn was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2010.

Despite the severity of her condition, she was not going to let cancer get her down.

"I put on a happy face and I got myself up every day and showed people I can get through this if I am positive," said Krohn.

After months of chemotherapy, radiation and a double mastectomy, Krohn learned about the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk.

"We all pulled together in one week and we made T-shirts out of the garage and 'Kel`s Angels' became the team name," said Krohn.

Krohn's involvement in the walk has grown through the years and now she's one of the top fundraisers for the American Cancer Society in the Midwest, which in return helps countless women.

"Currently, in the state of Wisconsin this year over 4,400 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. So that`s one in eight women just in Wisconsin," said American Cancer Society Events Specialist Cody Allen.

The money is used to provide services for women with breast cancer and to fund research.

"The American Cancer Society has funded more breakthroughs in research than any other organization in the world," said Allen.

Even though Krohn is now in remission her fight against breast cancer continues, one step at a time.

The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk is Saturday, May 3rd at Veterans Park.

Registration opens at 8:00 a.m. and the walk kicks off at 10:00 a.m.

To pre-register or to learn more about the walk CLICK HERE.