In October 2022 a few short weeks after my annual mammogram, a biopsy of a suspicious area in my right breast confirmed that I had breast cancer - DCIS to be exact. I was told this was the best type of breast cancer to have as it could not leave the duct and would require minimal treatment. After an MRI my surgery was scheduled for December 2022. During surgery an 8mm tumor of Triple Negative invasive ductal carcinoma was discovered and my life changed overnight. Not only did I have breast cancer, I had an aggressive form of breast cancer that  is not hormone driven so my only treatment options were Chemotherapy and Radiation. You can tell there is a difference in your diagnosis  when all of your appointments start to come quickly and with a sense of urgency. I had a second surgery - a sentinel node biopsy (December 16th) that confirmed my cancer had spread to one lymph node and on December 23rd I met with my amazing oncologist - December 28th scans to make sure it hadn't spread further. Started chemotherapy January 5th 2023.  Four rounds of TC followed by 33 rounds of radiation. 

This is definitely not how I intended to spend my 2023, but I am so very thankful for early detection and the amazing doctors/nurses/technicians who have helped me every step of the way. Without my family, dear friends and my care team, I am not sure I would be able to be as optimistic for a cancer free future as I am right now. 

I am walking for other women just like me who were living their best lives when all of a sudden they were struck by the truck that is breast cancer. I am lucky enough to have the support of family, friends and an amazing work family but not everyone is as lucky as I am. No one should have to face this fight alone. Together we fight - together we win!