We thought it might be nice if you knew more about the phenomenally talented bloggers who blog quality health-related content here at the Life Sciences blogs.

All of our bloggers are passionate about the health topics they write about related to cancer, diabetes and cardio heart health; compassionate in intent; and dedicated to bringing news, information, resources and a personal perspective meant to educate, enlighten and inspire in prevention, health management and survivorship.

Without further ado, we would like to introduce you to breast cancer survivor Jacki Donaldson, who blogs the Cancer Blog.

When did you become a Life Sciences blogger? May 2006

How has cancer touched your life?

Cancer has both horribly and beautifully touched my life. It has challenged me physically and mentally as my body endured a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, two hospitalizations, one blood transfusion, hair loss, nausea, and most recently -- chemo brain! My permanent scars include two healed incisions on my breast and in my armpit, ten blue tattoos from radiation, new hair that is nothing like I once knew, and a mindset that fears any little ache, pain, lump, bump, or discomfort. Yet in a wonderful way, cancer has taught me to cherish each moment, to love more deeply, to really watch my children, to put family first, to stress less, to have no regrets, to reach out to others, and to really truly do only what makes me feel comfortable and happy.

What advice would you give the newly-diagnosed cancer patient?

Go with your gut. Statistics are important -- but so is instinct. Doctors are not always right -- be your own advocate. Find a doctor you trust. Drop any doctor you don't trust. Pursue every worry, hesitation, fear that pops into your mind. Ask questions -- even those that may seem silly. Ask for help. Pamper yourself. Consider counseling. Connect with others who can share in your journey. And think positively -- because miracles happen every day.

What advice would you give loved ones of someone diagnosed with cancer?

Simply be there. Be the one who offers to grocery shop, babysit kids, deliver a meal, do some research, suggest a nap, send a card. Check in often -- yet respect privacy too. For me, just knowing I had so much support was what kept me going. Positive words and encouragement are powerful medicine!

What advice would you give cancer survivors?

Be vigilant with your on-going health care. Don't let anything slide. Reach out to others who follow in your path in any way you can -- the company of breast cancer survivors is powerful and strong. Consider that cancer may be a chonic condition -- if it comes back, keep treating it. Buy as much time as you can -- and one day, you may just live long enough to see a cure. Live each day as if it's your last -- and fight for your life at the same time. Allow your emotions to flow -- regardless of how long you've survived. Cancer is an emotional journey -- forever.

Name three favorite quotes:

Miracles happen every day.

You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.

Be kind. Everyone is fighting a battle.

Name three books you would recommend for those touched by cancer:

Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book by Susan M. Love, M.D.
Love, Medicine & Miracles by Bernie S. Siegel, M.D.
Uplift by Barbara Delinsky

Who inspires you?

Family, friends, cancer survivors, and those who leave encouraging comments on my blog.

What inspires you?

Music, candles, exercising, reading.

When you are not writing for TCB, what do you do?

I author my own personal blog -- My Breast Cancer Blog -- which I started just after my diagnosis in November 2004.

I exercise -- and am training to run in the 5K Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on October 14th. I am trying to raise $4,000 and have already raised more than $2,000. Here is my donation page -- Hope Starts Here.

I work as a part-time preschool teacher, scrapbook, play with my kids, eat out as much as I can justify it, and enjoy each day I have in front of me.