In April 2020, at only 27 years old, my world was turned completely upside down. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Triple Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma ? an aggressive form of breast cancer that had already spread to my lymph nodes. It was the most devastating news I could have imagined.

It all started shortly after we returned from a family ski trip, just as the world was shutting down due to the pandemic. One morning, while getting ready for work, a sudden instinct prompted me to perform a self-exam?something I wasn?t in the habit of doing. That?s when I discovered the lump.

I managed to secure a same-day appointment with an OBGYN. Although I was initially reassured that it was probably nothing, I insisted on further testing. After undergoing an ultrasound, a mammogram, and two biopsies, they discovered a 6 cm tumor in my right breast.

I got the call on April 9th, during the workday. I was in total shock. It felt like a nightmare I couldn?t wake up from. Thankfully, my family, my now husband, and his family quickly stepped in, making calls and using every connection they had. Within just eight days, I had a regimen in place and began my treatment journey.

My treatment plan began with 16 rounds of chemotherapy, then a double mastectomy, followed by 28 rounds of radiation, and finally reconstructive surgery. My body responded with incredible strength and resilience ? that 6 cm tumor had already shrunk by nearly 50% after just two rounds of chemo. Then on September 25th, 2020, I got the incredible news I?d been hoping for: I was declared No Evidence of Disease (NED).

Nearly a year later, on August 23rd, 2021, I underwent DIEP flap reconstruction surgery ? the final major step in my journey. The recovery was tough, but it marked the closing of this life-altering chapter.

Since my diagnosis, life has taken an incredible turn. I was lucky enough to marry my best friend in 2023, and together we purchased our very first home that same year!

September 2025 marks 5 YEARS with No Evidence of Disease. We did it! This milestone is one that every cancer survivor dreams of reaching. It means the chances of recurrence have dropped significantly and serves as a powerful reminder of how far we?ve come. Today, we celebrate life, strength, and hope!