Ms. Christine Russell

Christine says, when she received the news that she had breast cancer, naturally “fear” emerged. Moments airily she lost her footing. However, a strong confident voice said, “don’t be afraid. Stand firmly knowing that you’re not alone.”

Christine’s faith and strong Christian principles allowed her to look past a seemingly impossible situation. Her faith immediately extended to her God of miracles and she was assured that all things are possible.

A descendant of Cat Island and the eldest of six children is a testament to survivor determination and drive and it was conceived from her desire to beat the odds and a survival instinct to fight cancer and not give up.

“Chrissy or Chris” as she is affectionately called, was diagnosed in early September 2008 with aggressive stage two breast cancer. Describing it as a “difficult time in her life,” Christine underwent a radical mastectomy on September 19th, 2008 and began chemotherapy for one malignant lymph node immediately after. During her battle, she was comforted by the comforter the Holy Spirit. Just like she does with every obstacle in life, she relied on the power source of God’s comfort, peace provision and loving protection.

Since her diagnosis of breast cancer at the age of 55, Christine, who is now in remission, praises the Almighty God for her complete healing. Her battle with cancer has in her words increased her faith in God and has also given her the opportunity to reach out and educate other women about breast cancer, early detection, and the chance to share her story with women from all levels of society.

Her mission is to mentor and encourage others currently dealing with cancer, always reminding them that cancer is NOT a death sentence but a battle that must always be looked at it in a positive light despite the diagnosis. Over the years, God continues to bless Christine with a gentle cheerful heart as well as a loving spirit to cling to others. As a survivor, she embraced gratitude and love during her own suffering and trail to become an inspiration to others. Her survivor- link extends outside of the parameters of the official Cancer Society links. She has developed and maintained relationships with sisters and families all over The Bahamas.

Her greatest inspiration are her three beautiful girls, who she describes as the “apples of her eyes,” five grandchildren and one great grandchild, all of whom she holds near and dear to her heart. In gratitude, she salutes and admits that she would not have been able to overcome battles without the constant support and love of her family, as well as so many other persons that supported her whether emotionally or prayerfully. Christine is a born-again Christian who worships at New Lively Hope Baptist Church and Calvary Deliverance Church.

At the beginning of this year, Christine retired from her post of Assistant Vice President of Home Service at Family Guardian Insurance Company. Her career spans more than thirty years in the insurance industry. Her ambition and passion for the field afforded her the opportunity to, serve as the first female District Manager for the major insurance company.

Now, spending most of her retirement days traveling, cooking, and inspiring persons to reach their true potential there is a strong reason to believe that for Christine this is nearly the beginning and that there is so much more to come.