Each month we select a member of the FIT4MOM McAllen community who we think deserves some recognition for their hard work, lively spirit, and dedication to FIT4MOM.

This month, we're spotlighting Amanda Hudson! We're so glad to have her as part of our village. Not only is she an awesome mom, but she's also a breast cancer warrior!

Continue reading to learn more about her.

Tell us about who is in your family.

• Frank (husband), Teddy (2 years), Nala (dog)

Where is your hometown?

• Harrisburg, PA but I have lived in Raleigh, NC for the past 11 years so right now that seems like "home"

What is/was your career?

• Before Teddy, I was a kindergarten and special ed pre-k teacher!

How long have you been a member of FIT4MOM McAllen, and what has it done for you?

• I have been a member since August. Moving to a new place where you know no one is especially hard, so having FIT4MOM classes to attend has given me something to do during the week!

What is your favorite class exercise?

• Probably rows or overhead or chest presses.

What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?

• I can function on way less sleep that I thought was possible!

What are three of your favorite things?

• Spending time with friends and family, the beach, and reading.

What is your proudest mommy moment so far?

• Watching Teddy learn so many new things everyday!

What advice would you give to a new mother?

• Even when you think you aren't, you are doing a great job! Don't be afraid to ask for help!

Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, would you mind sharing more about your personal journey with breast cancer?

• Breast cancer has had a huge impact on my life for as long as I can remember. The BRCA1 gene runs in my moms side of the family. My mom had breast cancer at the age of 31, her mom passed away from it when my mom was 18 and several of her aunts and cousins have had it as well. Unrelated to the BRCA1 gene, my dad's mom also had breast cancer when she was in her 60s. I found out that I was also BRCA1 positive when I was about 25. I started to have yearly MRIs as screenings. In April of 2017, one of my MRIs found a suspicious spot when I was 27. A couple days later I was diagnosed with Stage 1 IDC Breast Cancer. I had just gotten married about 6 months earlier and my husband was deployed at the time. I underwent a lumpectomy, 8 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and 4 revision surgeries. 5 years later, I am still seen twice a year for monitoring and I have to continue to do self checks and be aware of any changes in my body.

What's something you would like moms to remember as we go into Breast Cancer Awareness month?

• Make sure you are doing your self checks, reach out to a doctor for any questions and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself!