2025 Komen Dallas North Texas Race for the Cure

Stronger than the Storm

At 43, I was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer on October 31, 2024.

In July 2024, I discovered a lump in my breast but ignored it at first. Soon, I noticed major changes in my body. As someone who cycled 15 miles several times a week, I suddenly felt constant fatigue, needing naps after work?something completely unlike me. I knew something wasn?t right.

In August, I visited my OB, who scheduled a mammogram in September. The results came back normal, only showing dense tissue. Still, I questioned why I had a lump if everything was ?normal.? After messaging my doctor, she ordered further testing. A sonogram revealed a suspicious area, and a biopsy later confirmed invasive pleomorphic lobular carcinoma in situ (PLCIS), grade 3. Additional imaging revealed four tumors?two PLCIS and two ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

I underwent 20 rounds of chemotherapy, but the results weren?t as effective as hoped. On August 4, 2025, I had a double mastectomy. Today, I am cancer-free and deeply grateful to God. Though my risk of recurrence remains, I refuse to lose hope or faith.

I?m forever thankful for my husband, children, family, friends, and loved ones whose support gave me strength.

The best advice I can offer: be your own advocate. Listen to your body, keep up with checkups, and never hesitate to ask questions.

Rare cancer is hard to detect on a mammogram, ALWAYS have further testing done, especially if you dense tissue.