A little about me, and my reason why.
In 2020, I was 28 years old when I found out I carry the PALB2 gene mutation, a genetic mutation that drastically increases the risk of breast cancer. At that age, most people are just figuring out who they are, planning for the future, chasing dreams. But I was faced with a decision no young woman ever expects to make: how to protect my life before cancer could take its shot.
I chose to have a preventative double mastectomy. It was terrifying, painful, and deeply emotional, but it was also the most empowering decision I?ve ever made. I did it for my two little girls. I did it so I could be here to watch them grow, so I could teach them what strength looks like, and so I could hopefully spare them from this fear one day.
Now, almost four years later, I?m preparing for my fifth surgery this month, yet another complete reconstruction. The journey hasn?t been easy. It?s been filled with physical pain, scars that run deeper than skin, and moments of doubt. But it?s also been filled with gratitude for life, for science, for resilience, and for every person who stands beside me in this fight.
I walk for myself.
I walk for my daughters, who each have a 50% chance of carrying this same gene.
I walk for my family members.For those we?ve lost and for those who?ve battled breast cancer with courage and grace.
And I walk for every woman who?s faced a diagnosis, a surgery, or a sleepless night wondering ?what if.? For every woman who has had to carry this weight, that has had to make the hard choices. It shapes you as a person, and makes you realize what is and is not important.
This cause isn?t just about awareness. It?s about hope. Hope for research, for science, for prevention, for a future where our daughters won?t have to make these choices.
Every step I take, every dollar raised, brings us closer to that day.
Thank you for helping me honor my journey, protect my girls, and carry forward the fight to end breast cancer once and for all.
As a member of this team, we are each playing a part in helping Susan G. KomenŽ in their mission to end breast cancer forever.
The money our team raises will fund research to discover more effective treatments, as well as vital patient support to help connect people with things like breast cancer education & information, emotional support, patient navigation, financial assistance and so much more.
Ending breast cancer needs all of us. United together, we can support those who need help today, while fearlessly searching for tomorrow's cures.
Please join us in this fight by making your contribution today or walking with us this Saturday.
