Six months ago, at just 42 years old, my life changed forever when I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

These past six months have been some of the hardest and, in many ways, some of the most beautiful of my life. There have been two surgeries, radiation, side effects, countless medical appointments, uncertainty, fear, and days when simply putting one foot in front of the other felt like an accomplishment.

But there has also been so much love.

I have been surrounded by incredible friends and family who have supported me, encouraged me, listened to me, made me laugh, held me up when I needed it, and reminded me that I never had to walk this road alone. I will forever be grateful for every message, every hug, every check-in, every act of kindness, and every person who has stood beside me through this journey.

Today, I walk for myself—for the woman I was, the woman I am becoming, and for every step that has brought me to this moment.

But I also walk for all of us who are fighting, those who have fought and come out on the other side, and those who have heartbreakingly lost their battle with this beast.

Breast cancer has changed me, but it will not define me.

Today, I walk with hope. I walk with gratitude. I walk with strength. And most importantly, I walk knowing that none of us have to walk alone.