We are all a few steps connected to someone we know and love being afflicted with breast cancer. What I was not prepared for was the story being me. Over the summer of 2023, I found a lump in my breast after doing my routine checks at home. I put off having a mammogram until October. That’s when I was given my first glimpse at what the next few months would hold, I have breast cancer, it’s invasive and aggressive and I will be in the fight for my life. 

As I began this journey, I realized how many women have walked this path before me, are walking with me, and how many will be walking after me. It is only now that I am walking the path, that I understand the grief, the tears, the joy, the uncertainty that a diagnosis like this brings to a woman’s life. It impacts and touches everyone in our circles of life. 

Through this journey I am also learning to appreciate when someone asks for donations to a cause - Susan B. Komen has an impact on a real person’s immediate needs. Be it a wig, financial support, therapy, or any number of survival needs that a cancer patient has organizations that fundraise can pay for these needs at a time when so many women need the help. Donations also help fund some of the incredible breakthroughs in treatment and technology that are working to help irradiate this disease for so many women. 

I will be walking for myself, for my girls, for the women that have paved the way for me, and the ones that will have to walk their own path after me. 

Consider a donation, however small and know that this does go a long way and it helps someone that you know survive or at least live with support when they need it the most. Thank you