In February of 2024, my life was unexpectedly turned upside down. During what I thought was just another routine yearly mammogram, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The news was shocking and terrifying, yet the diagnosis came early — a silver lining in what was undoubtedly one of the most harrowing experiences of my life. Those initial days were filled with fear and uncertainty, but over time, that fear transformed into determination, propelling me forward as I faced this challenge head-on. My breast cancer journey included my regular mammogram, follow up mammogram, biopsy, MRI (which found a second spot that the mammograms didn’t pick up), Ultrasound, a second biopsy, another mammogram and eventual surgery. Many women don’t have the excellent health insurance that I have and have to pay out of pocket for the follow up tests past the initial mammogram. Many women will not have the money to pay for these tests and will eventually die from the disease.

On March 15, 2024, I underwent a double mastectomy, an experience that was both physically and emotionally draining. However, I made a conscious decision to be transparent about my journey. Through social media, I shared each step of my experience–my diagnosis, my fears, my surgery, and my recovery — in the hope that other women would feel empowered to prioritize their health and schedule regular mammograms. To my amazement, my openness resonated with many. Messages began pouring in from women who had read my story, sharing their own experiences and diagnoses. It became clear to me just how powerful open dialogue could be in navigating the challenges of breast cancer.

This journey of transparency and connection led me to a new purpose as an advocate and ambassador for Susan G. Komen. In my role, I have had the privilege of traveling to Washington, D.C., and Columbus to meet with lawmakers, urging them to prioritize funding for breast cancer research and accessibility. I am passionate about ensuring that no woman has to face this battle alone and that advancements in research continue to improve outcomes for those diagnosed with this disease. Due to a meeting with one of our Senators in Washington DC last month has led to a scheduled round table discussion of experts involved with breast cancer including researchers, insurance companies oncologists, etc. that I will be attending. We will be discussing how to make Ohio and the U.S. better.

One of the most meaningful outcomes of sharing my story has been the connections I’ve made with other women. Many have reached out to express how helpful it was to talk with someone who understands the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. Through these conversations, I realized a glaring gap in our local community: there were no breast cancer support groups in our area. Support groups provide an invaluable space for women to share their experiences, seek advice, and find solace in the company of others who truly understand their journey.

Determined to fill this void, I teamed up Lisa Palmer and with other like-minded women from East Liverpool to start the Pink Ribbons Breast Cancer Support Group in our region. Together, we are working to create a safe, welcoming space where women can connect, share, and heal. We will be including some special guests and speakers including Dr. Grace Tarabay, oncologist, a mental health counselor, physical therapist, chair yoga instructor, makeup expert who will demonstrate products to help women during their radiation/chemotherapy treatments, massage therapist, etc. This initiative has become a labor of love, and I am deeply hopeful that it will provide the support and encouragement that so many women need during such a challenging time in their lives. The Pink Ribbons BC support group will meet the first Monday of the month beginning June 2, at 6:30 p.m. at The Event Center at Madison Plaza between Two Smart Cookies and Insight Counseling, 45875 Bell School Road East Liverpool.

This journey — a path I never expected to walk — has been transformative in ways I could never have imagined. What began as a personal fight against a frightening diagnosis has blossomed into a mission of advocacy, education, and connection. I have learned that while breast cancer is a daunting adversary, there is immense power in community, transparency, and determination. My story is not just my own; it is a call to action for all women to prioritize their health, support one another, and continue pushing for progress in the fight against breast cancer. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can make a difference.