We recently had the chance to connect with Charron Walker and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Charron, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is more important to me because it means being truthful and honorable in your actions, even when no one is watching and being consistent with your values and beliefs.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a 25-year breast cancer conqueror. I was diagnosed at the age of 32 and my mom passed away from this disease at 33, so I knew my sister or I would inherit the “Big C”, but I never thought it would be me. October 2000, I found a lump while doing a monthly self-breast exam in the shower. I was 32 years old and earned a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Development. I thought I had my whole life ahead of me. I had big plans for myself after graduation. I was going to find a good-paying job in human resources, pay off my student loan, and begin to move into the next stage of my life. I wanted to get married, have children, get a dog, and have a big house with a white picket fence. In a matter of days, everything changed. I remember thinking “I’ve been given a death sentence.” I was living in Jacksonville Florida at the time of my diagnosis. I had moved from New York in 1998; I needed a fresh start.
I had a lumpectomy, chemo, radiation, and 5 years of hormone therapy. It was stage 1 Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma. I had 17 lymph nodes removed and all were clear, thank God. My oncologist said the cancer would return in 5 years because of my age and family history, but God had another plan for my life. Being a PK and growing up in church, I knew of God. But it wasn’t until my journey with breast cancer that I began to know Him on a personal and intimate level. He is my everything. He is the only constant in my life.
All kinds of thoughts ran through my mind which resulted in sleepless nights and when I did finally sleep, I was plagued with nightmares. My doctor put me on medication for depression which helped me sleep. Thinking back on some of those nights, I remember while lying on my bed, I prayed for God to take me home to be with my mom because I didn’t have the strength to go on. But God got me through those dark times.
Through my journey, I found my purpose and started Young Survivors Network, Inc. in 2006, we are a support program for young women 40 and under diagnosed with breast cancer. I wrote a book titled “My Purpose God’s Plan” in 2013. I share how God took something that had happened for the bad; my journey with breast cancer and turned it around for the good; My purpose, Young Survivors Network, Inc.
I wrote a second book titled “Made Whole Devotional: For Breast Cancer Conquerors” in 2024. It has 20 devotions for healing and comfort for women, both young and old, who are diagnosed with and have overcome breast cancer.
I’m not just a survivor, I’m a conqueror!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My father, who passed away this September, was the first person to teach me the meaning of work and the value of a strong work ethic. He was a hard-working man who provided for his family with unwavering dedication. More than that, he was a role model — showing me how to pursue goals with purpose, not just in work but in life. When I felt like giving up, he reminded me to keep going. He helped me see the greatness that God placed within me, even when I couldn’t see it myself. His legacy lives on in every step I take, and I carry his lessons with me always.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Know your worth!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
The cultural value I protect at all costs is my relationship with God. Without Him, I wouldn’t have made it this far. Life-changing moments demand that we dig deep, confront our fears, embrace the unknown, and accept a new reality. Through every twist and turn, it is my faith that anchors me. With God by my side, I am reminded that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. That truth is not just a scripture — it’s my testimony.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I am in the presence of God. I can feel His peace in many ways; I notice the vibrant green of the leaves on trees, the white clouds drifting across a blue sky, and the myriad colors of flowers. Long walks bring me closer to God, as I observe birds soaring overhead, ducks with their ducklings, and the fragrant scents of nature. I find tranquility in the gentle pitter-patter of rain against my windows, the comfort of a good book, and the stillness of silence. I’ve learned to set boundaries for my mental and physical well-being, prioritizing what truly matters and spending my time wisely. There is no greater wealth than peace of mind. If it costs you your peace, it’s too expensive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.youngsurvivorsnetwork.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/YoungSurvivorsNetworkInc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoungSurvivorsNetworkInc/
- Other: My Purpose God’s Plan on Amazon: https://a.co/d/fNeq15m
Made Whole Devotional: For Breast Cancer Conquerors on Amazon: https://a.co/d/5Q4ixQb
Made Whole Devotional: For Breast Cancer Conquerors on Amazon (eBook): https://a.co/d/dcOUcjU
