A former Albert Lea resident who is an associate pastor in Lakeville has published her third book to bring hope to people battling cancer.

A 13-year breast cancer survivor herself, Mary J. Nelson was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in 1999 and underwent several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation.

“Who would have guessed 13 years ago that a journey through a devastating disease like cancer would lead to all this?” Nelson wrote on her website. “Certainly not me. But God knew.”

Nelson has previously published books in 2005 and 2009, and her newest book, “Peace for Each Hour,” was published in October.

The book uses personal stories as a platform to speak about the fears people may experience after surviving cancer, according to a news release. It also aims to help its readers focus on Jesus Christ to move to the future.

“For cancer survivors who successfully complete treatment, living with the fear of recurrence and facing an uncertain future are the greatest emotional challenge,” Nelson said in the release. “Even after successful treatment, a simple headache or backache can unleash possibilities that send a survivor into an emotional tailspin.”

Nelson, the daughter of Ray and Jeanne Hangge of Albert Lea, is a 1970 graduate of Albert Lea High School. She and her husband, Howie, reside in Lakeville, where she is an associate pastor at Hosanna Lutheran Church.

She said after she emerged from her breast cancer diagnosis in 1999, she became eager to share how God had transformed her life.

For more information on “Peace for Each Hour,” visit www.maryjnelson.com.