"We were ready to roll with the 'Warriors in Pink' program in the fall of 2006, and in February of 2007, I discovered a lump in my breast that turned out to be malignant," said DiMarco, who shares her story on Sunday's NBC's "Today" show.

DiMarco had no reason to think that it would happen to her. She had none of the risk factors typically associated with breast cancer.

She led a relatively healthy lifestyle, had no family history of the disease and was only 34 years old at the time of her diagnosis. Most women don't even start having mammograms until they reach age 40, consistent with screening recommendations by the American Cancer Society.

"When I went in for the mammogram, I thought the technicians would think I was being ridiculous for even having it checked out," she recalled. Unfortunately, there was reason for concern. The mammogram revealed a tumor, and a biopsy proved it was cancerous.

Fortunately for DiMarco, the cancer had not metastasized. After four surgeries, her prognosis is excellent. Others, however, are not so lucky. In DiMarco's case, the cancer was caught in time. She credits Ford and the company's "Warriors in Pink" initiative with raising her awareness about breast cancer and the need for early detection.

Ford Motor Company has dedicated more than $95 million in cash and in-kind contributions to breast cancer education and research to date. The company's goal for 2008 is to donate more than $1 million to the Cure through the sale of the special Mustangs, "Warriors in Pink" apparel and other fundraising efforts.