Dear Friends-I am fundraising to support those affected by breast cancer and will be walking in the Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walk this Sunday.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in May of 2023 and this spring I completed the majority of my treatment including a bilateral mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Thankfully my cancer was detected early through a mammogram, therefore I had many treatment options. I feel lucky to have had the amazing support of family, friends, and my medical team throughout my treatment and to be on the other side of it.

Komen-funded RxPONDER and TAILORx clinical trials were an important part of determining my treatment plan. These clinical trials used genomic testing, tumor pathology, and other info about patients to develop more precise treatments for subgroups of breast cancer patients. Although for me the studies supported that I would benefit from chemotherapy, the studies have identified other subgroups of women with early breast cancer that can skip chemotherapy without it affecting their risk of recurrence. To be able to safely skip chemotherapy and the side effects that go with it is life changing for those patients.

Scientific research is the only way to find cures and better treatment options for breast cancer. I am confident that there will be better treatments for all stages of breast cancer in the future. This is one of the things that gives me hope when I think about the uncertainty my future holds and the possibility of recurrence.

I hope that sharing my story is also a reminder to take care of yourselves, and also encourage your loved ones to make those vital mammogram appointments. Thank you for your support! It means the world!

With Love,

Lisa Alsch