Ashley Andrews, Miss Rodeo North Dakota, says her cancer is in remission, and the experience has made her stronger both mentally and physically.

The University of Mary student was diagnosed in January, just a month after she was crowned Miss Rodeo North Dakota. After six months of chemotherapy, she said she found out in early August that the cancer was in remission.

"It was a complete weight off my shoulders, and I feel like a new person again," Andrews said.

She credits a positive attitude and support from others.

"It was a balancing act, but I just did my best to focus on every day, taking every day as it came, and trying to get everything accomplished," she said.

She said she learned: "No matter what you're doing in life, you're going to face setbacks, but no matter how big the setback is, you really can overcome it and you can really accomplish anything you put your mind to."

Andrews will compete for the title of Miss Rodeo America on Nov. 25.

- Associated Press