October 17, 2025 — At Kennesaw Mountain High School, the 2019 school year was filled with mixed emotions and challenges for two of its dedicated teachers.
Niki Jaquish and Sherry Williams were both diagnosed with breast cancer, and each decided to continue teaching while undergoing chemotherapy and radiation.
For Jaquish, who teaches English, this was her second battle with breast cancer after already overcoming a 2016 diagnosis. She said in total she endured 30 rounds of chemotherapy and 72 rounds of radiation, all while continuing to teach students.
In 2019, Jaquish used her experience to help Williams, who teaches math. They both experienced the everyday struggles and challenges of teaching while undergoing intense treatment.
"Having breast cancer and teaching is not a club you’d sign up for, but at the same time, some of the most powerful relationships I’ve had with people have been formed in that way and walking this journey with a coworker was oddly empowering," said Jaquish.
Both longtime teachers said they occasionally had to miss a few days when chemotherapy became too intense, but didn't want to miss time because they wanted to be there for their students and each other.
They said that being at school and continuing to work gave them a place where they felt wanted and were able to make a difference instead of focusing on their diagnosis.
"I knew she was just down the hallway if I needed anything, she would check on me," said Williams.
Jaquish and Williams weren't close friends beforehand, but after months of sending text messages of encouragement during the school day and overcoming breast cancer together, the two said they're forever bonded through their battle and shared experience.
For the 2019-2020 school year, Jaquish was awarded Teacher of the Year at KMHS.
As they continued to teach, putting their comfort and emotions aside, they shared their experience with their students, who supported them in ways neither expected.
When Williams was undoing chemotherapy and losing her hair, she would wear wigs. One day, she decided not to wear a wig and walked into class without hair. She was immediately greeted with warm and embracing comments from her students.
"It meant the world. That kind of event really changes you, and it connects you with those students. So it was nice for them to see you as a human being, I think they always do, but on a more personal level," said Williams.
For Jaquish, she watched her students embrace her with open arms and encourage her throughout the process. While she found strength through her family and friends, she said the joy she got from being around her students played a big role in helping her get through days when she didn't feel her best.
"The students quite literally gave me life. They were quirky, funny, and supportive and looked out for me in ways I didn’t even realize were happening," said Jaquish.
Jaquish said she later learned that her students would tell visitors to her class not to get too close to her, as her immune system was compromised. She also mentioned that students would be looking out for her on days when they could tell she was struggling.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, you'll find signs of each teacher's journey throughout their classroom. Whether it's framed pictures, thank-you cards, or a pink wristband, both longtime teachers keep reminders of their battle with breast cancer and the support they received along the way.
Jaquish and Williams are both cancer-free.
