In August of 2023, I was diagnosed with DCIS Breast Cancer. My journey began a month before when I went for a routine mammogram at the age of 42. I was called back the following day to schedule a diagnostic mammogram based on the images. At first, I wasn't going to call back to schedule; Afterall, life was busy, I didn?t feel anything, and I would go again next year. After mentioning this to my boss, she encouraged me to take the time away from work and get it done. That is when it all began....  

I had my first surgery (lumpectomy) in Sept of '23. Unfortunately, there was more cancer than the mammogram and MRI showed. The surgeon was not able to get clear margins after reviewing the pathology. After consultation, I was quickly scheduled to have a double mastectomy on October 20, 2023. This was by far the hardest challenge I've ever had to face. It was emotionally and physically exhausting. My husband and then 7 yr old daughter were true troopers during this extremely hard time. Additional support from my family, friends, and work family were overwhelming. Healing and follow-up appointments became my "normal" for a long while. I had my reconstruction surgery in October of '24. Complications arose shortly after that ultimately resulted in having my left breast reconstruction start all over and 2 more surgeries.

?Fast-forward to today... I am cancer FREE and fully healed from all my surgeries!!! I am SO incredibly thankful to my boss for encouraging me to go back when recommended, to my husband, daughter, family, friends, and wonderful Dr's for being with me every step of the way.  Last year my daughter walked in the Susan G. Komen MORE THAN PINK Walk while I was healing from surgery but this year, I?m walking with everyone!!!!  I am dedicated to Komen's mission of ending breast cancer forever. No one should walk alone!

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today in support of my fundraising efforts. Your support helps us get one step closer to a world without breast cancer. Funds raised help support breakthrough research and provide assistance to those facing breast cancer today who need our support. Whether it?s emotional support via Komen?s helpline, financial support through Komen?s financial assistance program, or navigation services to break down barriers to care, Komen will be there for them.

Ending breast cancer needs all of us, and your generosity can make a real difference. Together, let?s show breast cancer patients there?s a whole community standing by their side.

Will you please join me in this fight by making your donation today?