In February of 2019, I felt a lump in my breast. I thought it was residual from breastfeeding and my doctor at the time thought the same. However he sent me for a mammogram to be safe. I am forever grateful that he did. In April of 2019, I had a mammogram and it was followed by a needle biopsy ultra sound, which later determined I had Stage 2 Breast Cancer. At the time, I was 34 years old with an almost 2 year old son. I went through all the stages of grief within a span of 2 weeks, but realized my only option was to fight. My friend Laura (who is pictured above), who I have known since high school was diagnosed with breast cancer 6 months before me. She was my beacon of hope, and knew if she could do this, I could do this. She helped me through every stage of my journey and told me what to expect and what I needed to reduce symptoms. We felt like we were both the unluckiest individuals having to go through this journey so young but glad we had each other. I had a double masectomy, 16 rounds of chemo, 28 rounds of radiation, 2 reconstruction surgeries and a total hysterectomy over a span of 3 years. I am forever thankful for everyone who was apart of my journey, a special shout out to my family, my co workers, and friends. I am fortunate to be here today to celebrate 5 years of survival. I walk for myself, my sister, my friend Sarah, Glenda, and Anne, my cousin Leslie and all the fighters. I also walk for my friend, Laura who lost her battle to breast cancer earlier this year. I miss you. 

This year, I joined the Komen community and registered for the Susan G. Komen MORE THAN PINK Walk. I am dedicated to Komen's mission of ending breast cancer forever, and I need your help. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today in support of my fundraising efforts.