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'I love the support system': Breast cancer warrior battles on through chemo, surgery

This year there will be 268,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer in the United States, according to the Susan G. Komen organization.

Action News Jax Courtney Cole is talking to a breast cancer warrior — who's determined to beat it.
Cole first introduced you to Clay County Deputy Cortney Altstatt last month.

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Altstatt’s journey started in October — when she first found a lump in her right breast.

"Keep up with the support. I love the support system,” Altstatt said.

Cortney Altstatt said that's been key in helping her keep that big smile on her face, as she takes on one of the toughest battles in her life: stage three breast cancer.

Last month, when Action News Jax Courtney Cole introduced you to the Clay County deputy — she was just finishing up chemo.

Courtney Cole: “What’s been the toughest part for you? I’m sure there have been some tough moments.”

Deputy Altstatt: "Absolutely. (laughs) Going through chemo was rough. I have to say, the surgery has been the biggest thing now."

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The mother of four had a double mastectomy just four four weeks ago.

Courtney Cole: I know they’ve [your kids] been taking a lot of joy in taking care of mom!

Deputy Altstatt: "Of course! They've put a hand in. "

She said her family has been there to help her every step of the way.

"Having my husband having to help me in-and-out of bed, out of vehicles, even helping to shower me—everything. But at the end of the day I'm still living and I'm making it,” Altstatt said.

She'll be starting radiation in about a week.

But besides beating this thing called cancer... she's looking forward to something else, too.

"After radiation it'll be reconstructive surgery. After that, I'm going to go start boxing again. So i'll be training for boxing and getting ready for that,” Altstatt said.

As she continues on her adventure, as she calls it, she wants you to know if #CortneyCan take on the challenges in her life -- #YouCanToo.

“If anybody that's going through the same thing, be strong, be positive.”

Altstatt told me she could also possibly have to have a hysterectomy...but she's ready to face any challenge that comes her way.

If you're looking for a way to help Deputy Altstatt, click

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LOCAL BREAST CANCER WARRIOR: This is the face of a fighter! Clay County deputy Cortney Altstatt has stage 3 breast...

Posted by Action News Jax on Friday, May 10, 2019
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