Jane Madsen

Dr. Jane A. Madsen (taken by Jane's co-worker)

Who is your hero? My hero is my mom, Jane A. Madsen. She turned 62 in January. Jane was born in Kellogg, ID. She is married to Frederick L. Madsen and has one brother, 4 children, and 4 grandchildren.

Jane is the most educated person I know. She has 2 Bachelors degrees, 2 Masters degrees, and a obtained a PhD in May of 2007. She loves learning and has always kept herself busy. Jane is also the most caring person I know. She has always stopped whatever she was doing to help others.

In December 2007 Jane was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. It was the first time in her life that she had to stop working, stop school, and stop helping others. She had to think about herself and no one else. Jane was facing horribly hard medical decisions. She got sick and sicker from the treatment she chose. I've never seen anyone fight so hard. She continues her fight, knowing that so many people are depending on her.

My mom made a difference in my life. She is my motivation and inspiration for everything I do. I was one of her 4 children and several of my siblings' friends call her mom too. She was so caring and took anyone in that needed extra love and guidance. She is a wonderful mom and I try my hardest to parent like her.

Jane is my inspiration to finish school. I call her when I need a little pep talk. Although, I have doubted my ability to attend college and finish, she has always shown confidence in me. She tells me how proud of me she is everyday. I wouldn't be who or where I am today if it wasn't for her.