On February 2, 2024, I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer which began a challenging journey that tested my strength in ways I never imagined. 

It began with a femur fracture due to bone cancer which metastasized to my hip.  Within weeks of feeling the pain in my hip I was walking with a walker. This quickly led to a wheelchair at the discovery of the fracture. Next I was scheduled for what my orthopedists called, “a hip replacement on steroids” on June 2, 2024, after having chemotherapy to stabilize my cancer. What followed was two weeks in rehab learning how to walk on my new prosthetic and months of physical therapy.    

Then, on October 24, 2024, I opted for a double mastectomy after being told I was BRCA 2 positive and received the first round of reconstructive surgery.  I went on to receive 30 grueling rounds of radiation in January/February this year.  

Through it all, I’ve stayed determined to be a beacon of hope and inspiration.  Even though my fight has “slowed”, being metastatic means I will always be fighting this disease. I continue treatment with hormone therapy with monthly injections and cancer-blocking medication, most likely for the rest of my life. This is why research for a cure is so important and why I’m participating in the Susan G. Komen breast cancer walk to support others on this path.