At 31, with an 18-month-old at home, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer.

I remember sitting in that exam room trying to absorb words I never expected to hear at that age, in that season of life. What followed — the lumpectomy, the follow-up appointments, the quiet exhaustion of trying to be a mom, a wife, an employee, and a patient all at once — humbled me in ways I'm still unpacking years later.

I was lucky. Caught early. Treated well. Still here.

But as I've gotten closer to 40, more of my friends are walking similar roads at different stages of diagnosis. Most recently, one of my dearest childhood friends went through a daunting diagnosis and treatment journey, and is now in her own healing and survivorship. Their stories — and my own — are why this work matters to me.

This year, I joined the Komen community and registered for the Susan G. Komen MORE THAN PINK Walk. I'm dedicated to Komen's mission of ending breast cancer forever, and I need your help.

Your tax-deductible donation directly supports:

• Breakthrough research that moves us closer to a cure

• Komen's helpline for women who need someone in their corner

• Financial assistance for patients navigating the cost of treatment

• Patient navigation services that break down barriers to care

No woman should walk this road alone. No mom should be googling pathology reports between bedtime stories. No family should have to choose between treatment and rent.

However I can make a difference, I want to — and I'd be so grateful for your partnership. Whether it's $25, $250, or sharing this page with someone who cares, every contribution matters.

Will you join me today? Together, let's show breast cancer patients there's a whole community standing by their side.

With so much gratitude,

Amy