On March 25th, I took this picture before my yearly mammogram. I almost didn’t think twice about it because breast cancer doesn’t run in my family, and I truly believed everything would be okay.

Then on April 13th, I got the call: “You have Stage 1 breast cancer.”

My whole world changed in an instant. I felt scared, shocked, sad, and completely unsure of what would come next.

The next day, I met my surgeon, Dr. Tolga Ozman, who immediately made me feel supported and hopeful during one of the hardest times of my life. On April 28th, I had my lumpectomy, and before surgery he told me, “Let’s make you cancer free.”

Those words gave me strength. Those words gave me hope.

Recovery hasn’t been easy, but I’ve been surrounded by incredible love and support from family, friends, coworkers, students, and parents. Every text, meal, card, and check-in has meant so much to me.

I’m sharing this because my cancer grew within just one year. It was not there at my last mammogram.

In a few weeks, I’ll begin radiation, and yes, I’m nervous. But I’m also strong, and I’m fighting this every step of the way.

This is why participating in the Susan G. Komen MORE THAN PINK walk means so much to me. It’s about awareness, support, strength, and reminding women that early detection saves lives.

Please don’t put off your mammogram. Don’t assume it can’t happen to you.

Get checked. It could save your life.