My Breast Cancer Journey:

A Story of Faith, Strength, and Resilience

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On May 27, 2024, my breast cancer journey began with a lump I discovered, just eight months after a normal mammogram and sonogram. I didn’t waste any time and saw my primary care doctor the very next day. She immediately referred me for another mammogram, but insurance denied the request, citing their policy of covering only one mammogram per year. After a week of navigating back-and-forth with the insurance company, I finally had the mammogram on June 6, 2024.

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The results came quickly. On June 10, 2024, my doctor called with the news: a BI-RADS 5 classification, meaning there was a high suspicion of cancer. She urged me to see an oncologist right away. That same afternoon, my sister Samantha and I hit the phones, determined to find the soonest available appointment.

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Then, on June 17, 2024—my birthday—I had my first appointment with the incredible Dr. Michael Khaky, my oncologist. We immediately scheduled a biopsy for June 19, and on June 21, 2024, the devastating news appeared in my MyChart: "Invasive Ductal Adenocarcinoma." My world changed in an instant. My mom was the first to read the results to me, and I’ll never forget that moment.

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The following days were a blur of appointments, but I felt a deep sense of peace when I met Dr. Khaky again on June 25, 2024. His proactive approach gave me hope, and he quickly began planning my treatment. I also met with my chemotherapy oncologist, Dr. Questa, who wasted no time starting my treatment plan.

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On July 12, 2024, I had my port surgically placed, and just three days later, I began my first round of chemotherapy, which would lead to 16 rounds in total. After months of treatment, I underwent a lumpectomy on February 11, 2025. Though the journey is far from over, on April 8, 2025, I began 30 sessions of radiation.

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This journey has tested me in ways I never imagined, but through it all, I’ve found an unwavering faith in God, in myself, and in the love and support of my family. My mission now is to help other women and families navigate this path with strength, grace, and hope. Though my story isn’t finished yet, I am determined to keep rising above—no matter the challenges ahead.