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Debbie Hardin knew her family history of breast cancer put her at greater risk. Her grandmother on her mom's side battled the disease.

Her self-awareness likely saved her life.

Hardin began getting examinations at the relatively young age of 32.

On Nov. 28, 2008, she underwent a mastectomy after doctors diagnosed her with breast cancer. Chemo and radiation followed her surgery.

"It was hard," she said with a chuckle."It was hard. What made it easier, or doable, was the support I got."

Hardin said that support from family and friends made the difference mentally, and carried her through to recovery.

"It's not fun by any means, but I heard great stories from different people. This one lady told me that if I would just eat sauerkraut during chemo, then I would be OK."

Hardin says the remedy didn't really work, but things like that woman's advice kept her mind off the fight she faced. She gives a great deal of credit to her family for pulling her through.

"I can't say enough about my three daughters and sister. I never did anything alone, and that helped so much."

Hardin has some advice for women of all ages.

"If you feel something - if you do your self breast exams every month - you know what they feel like. So if you feel something and it feels different, it doesn't matter if you are 24, 64, or 84, go to your doctor," she said emphatically.