My Story

It's official: I beat breast cancer. Twice.

My breast cancer journey began in December 2020 when I received the life-changing news that no one ever wants to hear: "You have breast cancer."

After meeting with my breast surgeon and radiation oncologist, we developed a treatment plan that included a lumpectomy followed by 20 rounds of radiation. In March 2021, I began treatment determined to face every challenge with strength, courage, and faith. No matter how difficult the days became, I chose to keep smiling, stay positive, and find gratitude in every small victory.

On April 19, 2021, I proudly rang the victory gong, marking the completion of my radiation treatments. As my birthday fell during that same week, it became the greatest birthday gift I could have received—the opportunity to celebrate life and look forward to the future.

For the next several years, I continued my journey with Tamoxifen, routine mammograms, and follow-up appointments. Everything appeared to be going well until May 2024, when I learned that the cancer had returned.

Hearing those words a second time was heartbreaking, but I refused to let fear define my story. After careful consideration, I made the decision to undergo a double mastectomy with reconstruction. I chose this path not only to treat the recurrence but also to gain peace of mind and eliminate concerns about my healthy breast.

The road has not been easy. Over the past two years, I have endured multiple surgeries, countless appointments, and the physical and emotional challenges that come with cancer. Yet through it all, I continued moving forward. While fighting cancer for a second time, I was also pursuing a lifelong goal — earning my college degree. There were days when balancing coursework, recovery, medical appointments, and everyday life felt overwhelming, but I refused to give up. Yesterday, I proudly graduated from college with a Bachelor of Business Administration, earning Cum Laude honors. Achieving this milestone while navigating cancer treatments and surgeries is one of my proudest accomplishments. It serves as a reminder that even in life's most difficult moments, we are capable of far more than we realize.

Today, I stand as a two-time breast cancer survivor and a college graduate. Those accomplishments represent more than milestones; they represent perseverance, resilience, faith, and the determination to keep moving forward no matter the obstacles.

Cancer has challenged me in ways I never imagined, but it has also revealed a strength within me that I never knew existed. It has taught me to cherish every moment, appreciate every blessing, and never take a single day for granted.

Breast cancer has touched far too many lives, including my own. That is why I am participating in Komen's MORE THAN PINK Walk. I walk to celebrate survivors and thrivers, honor those we have lost, support those currently fighting, and help create a future where fewer families hear the words "you have breast cancer."

Today, I am asking for your support. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to help fund life-saving research, patient support programs, and advocacy efforts that make a real difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.

Ending breast cancer requires all of us. Together, we can provide hope, support, and resources for patients and families facing this disease.

Will you join me in this fight by making a donation today?

Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and for standing beside me on this journey.

With gratitude,

Jennifer

Two-Time Breast Cancer Survivor | College Graduate | Advocate