My Breast Cancer Journey: A Story of Faith, Strength, and Community
In December 2023, my world shifted. I found a lump in my right breast during a self-exam — something no one ever wants to find. In that moment, fear set in. I was scared, overwhelmed, and had a million thoughts racing through my mind. Soon after, the diagnosis confirmed it: breast cancer.
Navigating those early days was a whirlwind of emotions — sadness, anger, fear… but also hope. I knew I had to fight. Not just for myself, but for my family. I have two beautiful young boys (Grayson and Valor) and an incredibly supportive husband (Roland) who stood beside me through every tear and every triumph. My parents, family, friends, neighbors, and a wider community I never expected to rally around me — they all became my village.
Treatment was grueling. I underwent five surgeries, eight rounds of chemotherapy, and 25 rounds of radiation. The side effects were brutal — there were days I couldn’t get out of bed, days when the dizziness was relentless, when food lost its taste, and when I saw my hair falling out in handfuls. But perhaps the hardest part was missing out on moments with my family — their events, their laughter, the daily joys of just being present with them.
But even in the darkest moments, there was light. My friends and neighbors brought meals, offered to babysit, sent kind messages. Friends and family near and far prayed for me, checked in, and made sure I never felt alone. I saw love in action — real, tangible, heartwarming love. I met beautiful souls and found organizations that provided support I didn’t even know existed.
Now, I’m on the other side of treatment. I still have a few reconstructive surgeries ahead, but I can breathe again. I can smile without the weight of fear on my chest.
I’ve learned that I’m stronger than I ever knew. I was fighting for my life — and I made it through. I leaned on God in my weakest moments, and He carried me. I’ve learned that people truly do care — that kindness is powerful, and that being vulnerable can create incredible connections.
This journey was the hardest thing I’ve ever been through, but it showed me the depth of love in this world — and for that, I am truly, deeply grateful.
