I first saw Charnette on the Oprah show in October 2002. It was a show about young women with breast cancer. I had just completed my chemotherapy and radiation treatments that month. I was glued to the television. The show followed Charnette and two other women through tests and treatments. I knew how these young women felt. I was one of them.

I attended the Young Survival Coalition 2003 conference. I was introduced to Charnette by a friend. I immediately exclaimed "I saw you on Oprah"! I was very excited to meet her. I thought she did an amazing job on the show representing all young women with breast cancer.

Charnette was diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer in February of 2002. The day after Charnette learned of her cancer she found out she was pregnant with her second child. She had a mastectomy of her left breast without reconstruction and chemotherapy while pregnant after her second trimester. Her son was born in September of 2002. He was born premature because she developed severe preeclampsia. Christian is a healthy three year old today and has an older sister named Gabby.

Charnette was recently diagnosed with a recurrence to her lungs. She is now taking Xeloda and alternative treatments.

Charnette's philosophy is about embracing life. She tells us on her website "I believe that life is a reflection of what is possible. Love is my favorite word, and if I could put my arms around the world I would. May all of us be inspired to dance, dream and Embrace Life"