By Briana Rickertsen When I imagined my first wedding anniversary, I envisioned drinking bubbly while exploring a fun mountain town. While I ended up enjoying that bubbly, I could never have imagined it would be at the end of my first chemo cycle – during a staycation filled with hand sanitizer, face masks, and social distancing. Let’s back it up to May 2020. It was about six weeks into the COVID-19 pandemic. I noticed that my breast tissue felt off . I couldn’t find a lump, but I found myself thinking that my right side felt different than my left. I noticed a drop of blood on a white t-shirt and realized it came from my nipple. And yes, I googled what this could be. After a telehealth appointment, diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy, I found out that what I had found in my google search was true. I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma on July 1, 2020 at the age of 35 . The next four weeks were a whirlwind of daily appointments to prepare for chemotherapy, a failed attempt at fertility preservation, and the discovery that I had a BRCA2 mutation  – all while learning this new medical language. While my cancer was aggressive, so was the treatment. I began 20 weeks of chemotherapy (Adriamycin and Cytoxan followed by Taxol) at the end of July. I knew from the day of my diagnosis that I would have chemo, followed by surgery and then likely radiation. Finding out I had a BRCA2 mutation was a shock, but ultimately this helped to make necessary decisions about surgery options and future treatment approaches. I decided to have a bilateral mastectomy after chemo, and a preventative oophorectomy later that year. I was coming out of the rough days of my first chemo cycle when my first wedding anniversary arrived. I had started to pick up energy, and I was able to thoroughly enjoy the surprise staycation my husband planned. While our wedding vows had talked more about adventuring and not saying no to making additional bike purchases, he didn’t need a more traditional vow of sickness or health to be with me every step of the way. Sometimes I feel as though getting diagnosed with cancer during the height of the pandemic would be my first choice if I had to choose when to get diagnosed with a horrible disease. I also have a relatively dark sense of humor; this discussion has not always landed well when I joke about it. For the most part, everyone was under similar considerations and restrictions, and I wasn’t missing out on international travel (a passion of mine). At the beginning of the pandemic, my husband set my bike up on a trainer and I joined the Peloton app. I was able to ride with my friends before work and it was a wonderful way to move and stay connected during a really unexpected and physically isolating time. By the time I noticed my breast symptoms in May 2020, I was using the Peloton app every day. I enjoyed the variety and the ability to take even 10 minutes a day for myself. When I was diagnosed, I made a commitment to myself to keep up my exercise streak. I rode, walked, practiced yoga and strength, and meditated throughout 16 chemo cycles, five surgeries (port placement, double mastectomy, axillary node dissection, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and implant exchange), five weeks of radiation, and one year of targeted treatment (PHESGO) after my surprise HER2 finding post chemo and surgery. I finished active treatment in January 2022 and as of October 2023, I have continued to use the app or bike in some way every day. While you absolutely do not need the specific branded bike or treadmill to maintain an exercise routine, during radiation I decided after 300 rides on a trainer it was time for an actual Peloton bike. Now that some time has passed since the more intense treatment, I have turned more of my time and energy to help fellow survivors reach exercise and movement recommendations through the Instagram account The Nifty 150. My “think big” goals include being able to have free Peloton app access during treatment for cancer survivors, targeted programming, education, and Peloton equipment in cancer centers (and free rentals for those in rural areas). Exercise and movement were a big part of both my cancer and my pandemic experience. As I continue to learn more every day about the benefits of exercise during and after treatment , I want to advocate for greater accessibility for survivors. I’m grateful to have now celebrated more anniversaries over the last three years. I appreciate the ability to continue to move my body and can’t wait to see where we can go. Connect with Bri: Instagram Read More: Exercise and Breast Cancer 9 Early Warning Signs of Breast Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore Breast Cancer in Young Women: Common Questions Answered Understanding Genetic Testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Is it Safe to Exercise After Being Diagnosed with Breast Cancer? Submit Your Story: Story, Poetry, and Blog Submissions

February 24, 1948 — September 29, 2023 McPherson, KS Linda Louise (Hawkins) Miller, 75, of McPherson, KS, a beloved mother, grandmother, and dedicated teacher, peacefully passed away on Friday, September 29, 2023, surrounded by family at Research Medical Center, Kansas City, MO. She touched the lives of many with her kindness and love. Born on February 24, 1948, in Carrollton, MO, to Lawrence Lee and Louise (Sanger) Hawkins, Linda dedicated her life to nurturing the minds of countless students during her career as a teacher. Her commitment to education not only left a lasting impact on her students but also served as an inspiration to her four children, whom she lovingly raised. Linda graduated from Stet County High School in Missouri and McPherson College. She was a Home Economics teacher, daycare provider, staff trainer at MCDS, and CMA and CNA at The Cedars. Outside the classroom, Linda found solace in her garden and the art of sewing. Her green thumb brought color and joy to any yard she could, reflecting her love for nature’s beauty. Her skillful hands created countless cherished garments, quilts, and crafts, leaving a legacy of her creative spirit. Music filled Linda’s home, as she graced the piano with her talent. She had a deep appreciation for classical music, and enjoyed singing at her local Church of the Brethren. Her love for music has been passed down through the generations, leaving an indelible mark on her family. Linda was not only a devoted mother but also a loving grandmother to five adoring grandchildren. Her warmth and wisdom will live on in their hearts as they carry her legacy forward. She leaves behind cherished memories and a profound impact on her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched throughout her life. Linda Miller will be remembered for her unwavering love, her dedication to education, her green thumb, her musical talents, and her enduring presence in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Our SurvivingBreastCancer.org community gathered to share memories and condolences to the family.

By Gloria Shoon At the first light; With gratitude in my heart, I connect with self and all of the Universe... Love is always in season; Self-love first of course. I rest often; as I outdream myself, AND make my own adventure... I choose to do this process with GRACE; not perfection... I expect the unexpected; as I co-create magic and miracles with the Universe, for self and all of humanity... This recipe is sure to result in; A KIND HEART, FIERCE MIND; AND BRAVE SPIRIT... I SOAR to my next level within; AND, AS AN AWARENESS AMBASSADOR OF SBC!!! Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

By Michelle LaFlamme I was once a beacon Shining bright both day and night My knowledge of the shore was once revered Appreciated, and Dare I mention feared I was strong and determined Against the jagged slippery rocks And frothing capsizing sea Then they closed the port GPS and computers I think I became redundant Obsolete. My light was retired lenses cracked caked with salt No longer valued except by you My children at sea I became a night light Reminding you of my love When my light burns out No one will remember To change the bulb Will they care? Probably not All that I was Will be forgotten Except by you My children at sea The lighthouse is abandoned Sold at auction, Pennies from heaven Searching for a new keeper Will they be as bright as me? Probably not. You will remember My shining light My children at sea Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Pooja Jain Words can shatter your world. “You have cancer” – who wants to hear that? But words can also help one to heal, reflect, and recharge. Who knew that? Expressive writing by Thomas Dooley has opened a “Word Wonderland” for me. Zooming every Monday with a group of amazing superwomen and a superman is a treat that we all want to enjoy together. We write our hearts out, enjoy the wonderful poetic world, and we create our own. Thomas gives us a writing prompt to kickstart our thoughts e.g. I feel, I wish, I am …. We share a sentence or two. It never fails to surprise me that usually we are speaking each other’s mind. A group of people sitting miles apart, never met yet so alike… we are all humans… just in different costumes. A poem on “Sea” can bring up a happy childhood memory for one person but can also remind another person of surfing the waves of loss or personal battle and tough times. We have laughed, giggled, and shed tears together. A poem can help break the ice and dive in having a deep, meaningful conversation going… That is my share of expressive writing... Get going and read a poem tonight at your dinner table with your loved ones… Enjoy your own “Word Wonderland”! Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Dawn Oswald A new day A new Dawn Dawn, um that’s me I start me all over everyday Me Full of life Full of fun Full of caring Caring for you Join me on this new day Caring for you Then care for someone else Start a new day with love Love for one another Make this a day of peace, love and add some laughter Wake up on the right side of the bed Add some cheer, be happy Add Dawn to your life Life of love Love from me to you A new day is precious Start it off right If you don’t like it Then change the way the day is going A new day A new Dawn A new me A new you Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Brookshire McDonald “April showers bring May flowers” The ancient saying goes. Where to find it etched in stone No one really knows. ‘Tis the year 2023 and to now The weather has changed day to day. The weathermen smile as they aim for perfection In what they say. But even they face a dilemma With predictions they roll out, ‘Cause minute to minute changes Seem to be what the weather’s all about. The daffodils seem as confused As anyone at all As to when to bloom After having been planted in the fall. In Feb. the warm weather came As never before; Winter stayed hibernating As records were broken galore. Taking this as their sign To poke their heads, Daffodils began blooming From everyone’s beds. April moves into May But blooming daffodils are now past. Maybe no saying Should forever last. “Record warmth in Feb. preludes snow in March” Has proved to go well Until the future creates A much different spell. OR changing the dates for seasons Year in and year out, May be the solution Without a doubt! Most probably in the past You did hear The first robin bird seen Means spring is near. Not to ask the following I would be remiss Who would be delegated to reveal to the robins All of this? Spring, winter, summer, fall Come on down south all of y’all! Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Christie White I want to move. To spin in circles on my lawn in the sun, to dance, to use my breath and feel my muscles To be happy I want my body to feel loose and flowy but strong, to lose the stiffness of work and aches of no sleep and fear of what they could all mean. I trust I am okay but I could be better. I want to be so much better. If I move, I will be better. Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By William Laferriere it’s long been understood that there are no atheists in foxholes, and it follows then, that there are also no libertarians in crises, no jokers at a biopsy, no smiling faces - telling lies at a most inopportune time, no needy pearl clutching busy body know-it-alls, no phony sentimentalists, promising the glow of natural antiseptics, micro organisms for use to dispel malignancies… it’s also understood that Cancer as depicted, an astronomical constellation, has the likeness of a crab crushed under the sandal of Hercules. Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Michelle Laflamme She is naturally beautiful Gorgeous… He is floored A Peachtree Street hotel Perky bosom Flat abs Dinner and drinks… A rented Mercedes Cost one grand To risk it all… I am not this woman I am his wife He said it wasn’t personal No bosom Fat abs Head hung low No longer naturally beautiful Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Dawn Oswald December 2022 The light and my legacy The light is my way The light is good The dark is bad, but not all the time In the light I can see You’re so beautiful I can see a beautiful rainbow I can see birds flying high above We need the light to see To see each other In the dark we can see the stars and the moon, but then I can’t see you The light brings me joy You can lose track of time in the light, especially when it is light 20 hours of the day The light brings warmth The dark brings cold The light blooms flowers Flowers from me to you I hope to brighten your day Some people see a white light and live to talk about it That is when I am going to stay away from that bright light Do not go into that light I will fight before going When it is time to go into that good light I hope I am old I hope I put up a good fight I hope I was able to mark off my bucket list I hope I have left my legacy behind Behind to brighten someone else’s day Let’s survive as long as we can and tell our legacy I hope my husband does not follow me into that light I hope he can survive and live longer The light is good The light can be bad if seen way too early The light can be full of beautiful colors Let the light shine on you and guide you Live life bright and full Except the light of the day Make your legacy count Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By William Laferriere They once inculcated a moral response, Within our vaunted, ever-expanding community, Eyes wide open, Hearts and minds filled with hope. Bodies ravaged by Insidious dividing cells, Scalpel scar tissue And deleterious side effects. Their early departure speaks of travesty, We’ll miss their countless contributions Of thoughtful advocacy and decency, Lived experiences and tears. A recent NoHalfMeasures discourse, Enjoins us to develop grief rituals, Remember those left behind, And find the lesson of their lives. And to “Say Their Names.” Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Lourdes D. Heras Content note: This story references the author’s experience with intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual abuse. For support and resources, please visit the CDC’s IPV webpage or the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Hello! My name is Lourdes D. Heras. I have been a member of the SBC community since October 2020, when I started attending the Thursday Night Thrivers program days after my double mastectomy. In June 2022 I began my collaboration as the new Director of Community Engagement and co-founder of “Después de un Diagnóstico,” SBC’s new addition of programs offered in Spanish, where we provide educational information and support for the Spanish-speaking community. The Spanish team helps with a variety of tasks at SBC. Together with my colleague Brenda Coronado, I co-host a new podcast: “Después de un Diagnóstico,” a newsletter, and our Tuesday support group, which meets on the third Tuesday of the month. We also assist in art therapy every first Tuesday of the month and very soon we will launch our reading group. We collaborate in the planning of our programs, communicating with members, and also participate in events and conferences. In October 2020, I was diagnosed with estrogen- and progesterone-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. Through this diagnosis I had many, many difficulties. As if cancer was not enough, I had to protect myself from the person who I thought would be my protector; after all, he was my husband. Sadly, after 18 months of marriage and a cancer diagnosis, he became my abuser. Two days after my mastectomy he sexually abused me, unraveling a series of infections and emergency surgeries. He would also humiliate me with words like, “Look at you, they are taking all your woman parts away,” (since I needed a mastectomy and hysterectomy due to my type of cancer), “You will get it again in 10 years,” and the first words that came out of his mouth: “They are not big enough,” after the first filling of those excruciating expanders. Never a word of encouragement. Never an, “I am here for you” or “We will beat this together.” I suffered a stroke two weeks after finishing radiation, and the hospital nurse advised me to file for a restraining order so that he would not approach me. He violated the initial stipulations of the order seven times. I was finally granted three years of protection for him to stay away from me, and recently finalized my divorce from him. Now, I am very happy to be part of the SBC community, not only professionally but personally. I have a Master’s in Public Health, specializing in healthcare administration. My passions are everything related to diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and breast cancer. More recently I’ve become active in the prevention of intimate partner violence (mental, emotional and sexual) after a cancer diagnosis. This is especially important to me since I was personally affected after my breast cancer diagnosis. Outside of my job with SBC, I am a mother of two beautiful children: Xoe (age 15) and Londen (age 12). I also manage a multidisciplinary department of endocrinology, diabetes and wellness, which I am very passionate about. My team of 60+ people offers various resources for patients in the prevention, treatment and maintenance of diabetes in the state of Arizona. Throughout a cancer diagnosis, I want everyone in the Spanish-speaking community to know that they are definitely not alone. We offer great support through SBC’s resources. I personally want you to know that it is good to look at the glass half full and not half empty. And as for the parts that God gave me and cancer took away, that doesn’t make me any less of a woman. I look forward to seeing you and connecting through SBC’s various resources and programs in Spanish! Learn more: Después de un Diagnóstico Excess Estrogen, Gene Testing, and Beyond Information on Reconstruction Surgery Partner Abandonment and Cancer Thank you for sharing your story, Lourdes. SBC loves you! SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Dr. Antje Petershagen My name is Dr. Antje Petershagen. I am a doctor specializing in rehabilitative medicine, a psycho-oncologist, and a breast cancer survivor. SBC note: According to the American Psychosocial Oncology Society, psycho-oncology is “a cancer specialty that addresses the variety of psychological, behavioral, emotional and social issues that arise for cancer patients and their loved ones.” Art by Dr. Antje Petershagen Illness has accompanied me since early childhood. I cannot remember my body without scars. I have three abdominal scars. The first two I got in 1965, when I was three years old. After a partial ileum resection (intestinal surgery), I needed additional surgeries for adhesive ileus (bowel obstructions). I had adhesive ileus again in 1981. I had additional partial ileum resection and surgery for adhesive ileus in 1996. I have also been diagnosed with pelvic vein thrombosis with subsequent pulmonary emboli. In this context, a factor V mutation was diagnosed, with lifelong anticoagulation therapy. Since not knowing my body was different from others, I never felt really ill. As a little girl, I thought, this is a “normal” body. I worked around many physical problems due to my intestinal issues and diarrhea, but I never held myself back from participating in any adventure. As a child, I was bullied because of my scars (kids can be cruel), and I was very skinny. Gaining weight was a problem since I spent most of my childhood and teenage years in the bathroom. I was shy and the time being hospitalized at a young age, not seeing my parents, not understanding what was going on, left scars in my soul. In these times there was no psychological support, neither for me nor my parents. In early adulthood, despite my additional illnesses, I felt pretty good. I finished my university education, medical school, and even my 5-year internship. Somehow, I am resilient and I know how to cope with illness. In 2012, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and it was a challenge. I had been seeing my gynecologist for cancer screenings since I was 50. This time, I’d had no symptoms but I felt an inner call to go for the screening. The diagnosis process involved a manual exam, ultrasound, mammogram, and a vacuum-assisted core biopsy. I was diagnosed with highly-moderately differentiated invasive ductal carcinoma and highly to moderately differentiated ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), both in the left breast. I proceeded to have surgery to remove the cancer and some surrounding breast tissue. After tissue removal, histology was used to determine whether the surrounding tissue was cancer-free. Twice, surgery did not achieve cancer-free status. However, the lymph nodes were not affected and no metastases were detected. Because the operations were not successful, I decided to have a single left mastectomy. I decided to have reconstructive plastic surgery at the same time. I never regretted this decision. No chemotherapy or radiation was needed. For five years I was on Tamoxifen, an anti-hormonal therapy since I was tested to be hormone receptor positive. In 2014, I was diagnosed with a tumor in the right breast. Luckily it was a benign tumor, called a fibroadenoma, which I had removed surgically. Later, when I started my education to become a psycho-oncologist, I was surprised how much anxiety was expressed in the cancer groups I participated in. Cancer was our topic. We studied so much theory, but meeting the real patients was a challenge for us. We met a young patient who told us her story, never being able to have the life of a teenager, but instead spending months in hospitals. When we got the notice that she died some weeks later, the group was shocked. As a breast cancer survivor, I could relate to patients, empathize with their fears, anxieties, their reactions and comments, and even their thoughts on not continuing with therapy. My colleagues did not take it easily, as they often could not understand the mindset. They had to learn to be empathic, to respect a patient’s decision, and to find skills to open up a healthy dialogue with them. We had intensive training on how to tell someone their diagnosis, and how to stay calm and yet supportive. And here is my strength. I do know how huge anxiety can become, how easily it can arise—unexpected and overwhelming—and how important it is to be open to the emotions, instead of using phrases like, “You are strong” and “You just have to stay positive.” Comments like this do not help at all. Being active in breast cancer support groups gave me the chance to apply my very own experiences. I have three perspectives to look at the topic: as a psycho-oncologist, a doctor, and a patient. It is the perfect experience to support breast cancer patients going through this difficult process, from diagnosis and beyond. Getting diagnosed with cancer means starting a new life; there is no return to the life before. Cancer provided a huge opportunity to change my life. Without cancer I would not have found the motivation to leave my comfort zone, to go beyond inner limitations. Cancer made me so much stronger than before. I’ve gotten more creative since my diagnosis in 2012. In my life after cancer, I reduced my working hours and started writing a book about my journey, which I self published. I also did what I always wanted to do: paint. Art was always important in my life, but I fell in love with watercolor painting after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Slowly, I started to show my art in public. Over the years I became an established artist and showed my work in several exhibitions. I started traveling as a solo traveler in India, hiring a driver and exploring India. And most importantly, I spent a lot of time studying Indian philosophy. I spent time in an ashram and dived deep into my meditation and yoga practice. Ultimately, I completed over 700 hours of yoga teacher training and received my certificate from the Kriya Yoga Center in Passau, Germany. I also teach medicine for students wanting to become yoga teachers. Last year I decided to participate in a mentor program to expand my work as a coach and psycho-oncologist. Cancer was a huge chance for changing my life to the life I always wanted. I don’t overdo things; I choose carefully what I want to do and I learned that “no” is an answer. My focus is now on being a mentor and coach for breast cancer patients, expressing myself through my art, and using art as a tool in my workshops. It took me years to tell my story and to open up about the breast cancer part of my life. But it is important to share my experiences, my story, to support women, and to speak out loud about the illness and its deep effect on my life. When someone goes through breast cancer, they are not the same person as before. But we are all stronger and wiser. Learn more: Different Types of Breast Cancer Rock Painting While Battling Breast Cancer Is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) Curable? Fighting Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma SBC Art Therapy Programs Transitioning Back Into the Workforce There Is No New Normal; It’s Just Life SBC Resources for the Newly Diagnosed Thank you for sharing your story, Antje. SBC loves you! SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

I wish someone would have told me that I was going to feel this good after surgery! First off, I am just so relieved that I woke up from surgery. I had never had any major surgery before so I was naturally was petrified about the procedure, the pain, and what life would be like “on the other side”. I have to say, in full honest, I am surprisingly happy! Knowing that the tumor was removed just gives me a new sense of relief. I know having cancer is stressful, but being on this side of the operation feels so good! Now, it’s time to move forward and I am not going to miss a beat. I know rest is an important part of the healing process, but so is movement! I was thrilled when my surgeon told me to move as much as my body allows me to! I started raising my arms and “climbing the wall” so that I could build up my arm mobility as quickly as possible (this was also important for me as not to have too much scar tissue form either)! Also, while I can’t run, I am determined to walk 5 miles a day, minimum. As part of my recovery it is important to get out of the house, enjoy some fresh air, and get moving! Walking is a great form of exercise to get the blood circulating and build confidence! Yes, I just had surgery, I have 3 drains, and peach fuzz for hair, but I am not letting this stop me from enjoying the activities I love. Plus, I know that if I can walk every day, I’ll be back to jogging and running in no time!

By Jill Rackham I will never know what it was like for my children to receive such news about their mum, Telling my boys about my cancer diagnosis was so hard and certainly no fun. My words were always factual and spoken positively, I had to be truthful but also wanted to talk so openly. I had shaken their world with so many unknowns, At a time when life was different as covid was full blown. Scans, treatment, and surgery with nights in hospital away from home. No visiting was allowed so we could only speak by phone. During my daily struggles in times of much strife, They made no fuss at all and quietly got on with life. Being a good mum is what we all aim to be. During times I've felt so absent and my boys have instead looked after me. My boys are total superstars and most definitely are resilient, As how they have dealt with all that has come their way has been truly brilliant! -- Connect with Jill and read more of her poetry on Instagram: @poems_to_help_you_through

Lisa is the creator and Host of the Our MBC Life Podcast. When she was diagnosed de novo MBC with ER+HER2- in August 2017, Lisa became the 4th generation in her family to be diagnosed with breast cancer but the only one to be diagnosed at Stage 4 from the beginning (de novo). She was on her seventh line of treatment, has participated in two clinical trials. Lisa lived in CT and NYC with her husband of 27 years and their dog, Kita. They enjoy seeing their two young adult sons when they aren’t working or in school and connecting with family who live in Canada. Lisa was an advocate and we are pleased we have been able to get to know her through our community at Survivingbreastcancer.org. Check out Lisa Laudico on our podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations

Andra Kalnins was a mindfulness instructor, patient advocate, former nurse and family nurse practitioner graduate. She lived in Chicago, with her husband and 5-year-old son. She was diagnosed with early-stage triple negative breast cancer in 2016, with a stage IV metastatic breast cancer (MBC) recurrence in 2020. Andra recently completed mentor training with Project Life, a virtual wellness house for those living with MBC and their loved ones, and advocacy training through Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s 2021 Hear My Voice Metastatic Advocacy Program. Her advocacy interests included peer support, with a focus on quality of life and psychosocial, emotional, spiritual, coping and healing. Andra strived to live as fully as possible, by empowering herself and others to keep living with joy, connection, meaning and purpose despite the grief and uncertainty of facing an incurable disease. Always seeking hope. We are honored that we had the opportunity to get to know Andra through her involvement with Survivingbreastcancer.org. Watch her Webinar as she and her sister Ilga discuss how Art gives Hope.

Originally published by Dependable Cleaners here . In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month Dependable Cleaners wanted to put the spotlight on an entrepreneur making strides to support those who are and have faced a breast cancer diagnosis. So here we are! The spotlight is turned inward so here we go! Laura Carfang started SurvivingBreastCancer.org as a platform to provide support, education, and a community for those that have been diagnosed and their caregivers. Laura took her personal journey with breast cancer and turned it into a way to inspire, encourage and support others. As Executive Director she has set out a vision and is a strong believer that everyone’s voice should be heard. We spoke with Laura to learn more about her journey and her vision for SurvivingBreastCancer.org How can we offer support and compassion to both individuals fighting a breast cancer diagnosis and survivors of breast cancer? There are various and sundry ways family, friends, and caregivers can offer support to those diagnosed with breast cancer. I think the most important thing to keep in mind is that everyone is different, so take the time to ask the person what would be helpful to them. You may think it is helpful to bring over food, but a person diagnosed with breast cancer may have a particular aversion to certain foods due to the side effects of the chemotherapy; some people lose their taste buds, others may develop mouth sores – making meals a challenge and a reminder that they are ill. One thing I noticed is that everyone has an opinion when it comes to your health care. Unless the person with breast cancer is asking you to recommend a doctor, or specific advice, sometimes these options are better kept to yourself. Finally, going back to the first point, I think it is also important to ask the person what their boundaries are, how open they want to be about their diagnosis, I.e., which family members get all of the details and which people get the high-level updates. In my experience, my boyfriend and caregiver came to all of my appointments and he was the one family members were able to call and ask questions allowing me to catch up on much needed rest.   What are some key initiatives SurvivingBreastCancer.org is working on this coming year? We have some exciting plans coming up this year. We are transiting to more of a virtual platform to enable our organization to help as many people as possible. Secondly, we are seeking grants, corporate sponsorships and cause related marketing alliances that will enable us to work full-time for the non-profit. Was there a specific moment in your breast cancer journey that set the stage for what you wanted the mission of your organization to be? Absolutely! Living in Boston, one of the world’s great health care Meccas, and being a major metropolitan city, I thought it was going to be easy to find other women, similarly diagnosed with breast cancer and make connections. I honestly thought that if I typed into google “breast cancer survivors in Boston” I would find a thriving community ready to connect and share their experiences. In hindsight, I guess I was looking for a breast cancer mentor so to speak. Boston offers several support groups and forums which are great resources, but they are usually spearheaded by the hospitals. However, if you are working, it is hard to attend weekday afternoon sessions. It was through my own experience navigating breast cancer that I launched my 501(c)(3) non-profit, Survivingbreastcancer.org . I wanted to create a virtual platform that provides community, education and resources for those diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers. A breast cancer diagnosis does not end when treatment ends, there is a lot of aftermath that comes with it. If you are diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, you are never truly 100% “Cancer Free.” Oncologists use the term “No Evidence of Disease” or “NED”. There is always a lingering fear that the breast cancer may return. That is where our organization comes into play. We are there when your medical care team says they will see you in 12 weeks, or 6 months or next year, and PTSD slowly creeps into the fabric of your life. This is when the community and support systems are needed the most. Tell us about a mentor who has been influential to you as a leader. I have to say that my mom and dad have been my biggest mentors and influential leaders. They are my rock! I am very fortunate to be very close with my family. My father started his own business in the financial industry 35 years ago, so in a sense I’ve grown up around entrepreneurship. From a young age I was exposed to the dedication and hard work that goes into running a business and that the hours are hardly 9-5. My mother works in the healthcare sector. I remember early on, she would find opportunities to educate her patients and their families. She incorporates nutrition and lifestyle medicine in her approach making it easy for her clients to understand the complexities associated with illness, food allergies, and autism, for example. She now leads the Carol Carfang Nursing and Healthcare Ethics conference where leaders, educators, and philosophers come together to discuss the most pressing issues in the field. I guess you can say, it’s in my genes and I couldn’t be more grateful for the mentorship and leadership I receive from my parents.   Do you have any tips for entrepreneurs to help them maintain a healthy work/life habit? Most entrepreneurs will tell you that you have to have an unwavering passion for and belief in the work you are doing. There are times when entrepreneurship can be quite lonely. There are moments of doubt and insecurity along the way. However, it is in those moments that I remind myself, “if it were easy to put your life and souls’ work out there to be a success, then everyone would do it.” It takes a specific mindset and drive to be willing to take chances, to be judged (because everyone has an opinion), and to risk failure and still persevere, that distinguishes an entrepreneur. The work/life balance is a challenge and it comes down to prioritization. A simple black and white question I ask myself is, will this give me joy, will this help me get from point A to point B. And if the answer is “yes”, then it is worth doing. If the answer is “no”, then I move along to the next thing.  The other technique that I use is dedicating one day a week for “me-time”. I have chosen Monday as that day where I do not book meetings, schedule podcasts, or work on blog posts. For me this is a guaranteed day where I can find a yoga class, go for a run, grab a dinner with girlfriends, or simply sit on the couch in pj’s and scroll through social media posts. Whatever you need to do to unwind, relax and refresh, it’s important to carve out that time each week. In the work that I do running a non-profit, I am reminded that it is not a race but a marathon. Like all non-profits, we are called to solve some of the world’s most challenging problems. We are not going to cure breast cancer tomorrow. However, if we can help one person, move the needle one point, and provide support, education and community to those diagnosed with this disease, then I know we are going in the right direction. Thank you Dependable Cleaners for publishing our story and supporting breast cancer awareness, programing, and resources. Want to learn more about Laura's story, here are some additional features: Channel 7 News & On the Podcast

Kerensa Nathele Irvin, 25, of Maple Valley, passed away on December 9th at 3:14 am in her mother’s arms. She had a 1½ year battle with stage 3 breast cancer, which become metastatic last November 2018. She was courageous and an example of hope through her strength, smiles and positive attitude. Kerensa was born on February 28th, 1994 in Seattle where she lived her early formative years in diverse communities. She embraced the rich culture she was exposed to with love and acceptance. Her childhood experiences developed her into a person who respected and accepted diversity. In grade school, she was first to welcome new students or include students left out to participate in activities. She was known for her inclusive and collaborator skills at a young age. As she matured, her compassion, genuine care for others, along with her infectious smile became her beloved traits. As a youth she was always willing to experience new activities such as karate, dance, racquetball, basketball and baseball. She played soccer for several years before discovering swimming. During her junior and high school years Kerensa loved performing in plays and was fortunate to be in a variety of roles. She had a love for the water and enjoyed swimming for King Aquatics and Tahoma High School. She had a connection to water that gave her comfort and peace. Her favorite places included Kalaloch, Pacific Beach, Long Beach, Big Island Hawaii and Puerto Rico beaches walking and playing in the surf. She had an unfulfilled dream of visiting the Greek Isles to walk the white sands and swim the turquoise waters. Kerensa graduated in 2015 from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She had a passion for helping people through difficult situations. She had a special interest and love for adolescents, especially young people experiencing depression. She wanted to prevent teenage suicide and assist those at risk. Her goal was to complete her master’s degree in either psychology or social work. In late 2015 Kerensa made the journey to Massachusetts where she spent 4 years sharing her love, light, and laughter making everyone's lives infinitely better. During her time in Massachusetts, Kerensa was an active Human Rights advocate, and won the hearts of executives and politicians while helping create diversity and inclusion programs. She passed along her love and knowledge of baking to "her boys" as she danced in the kitchen while making her secret recipe cookies and cakes. She was an unconditional supporter of education and would effortlessly help with schoolwork. The lessons she taught will be cherished, remembered, and passed down. Kerensa is survived by her parents, Diane Irvin Marines and Osbardo Sosa, stepfather Gonzalo Marines, papa Glenn Irvin and Grandma Victoria Sosa. Her late nana Barbara Irvin adored her along with her “second mom” Laurie Yarbrough who passed in 2017. She will be missed by her brothers Gonzalo Jr., Joaquin and Lorenzo. Uncle Kevin Irvin, Aunt Glenda McQueen and cousin Amber Hoyt. Kerensa leaves behind her loving husband of just over 1 year, Glenn, two adoring stepsons Liam and Finnbarr, nephews Grayson and Oliver, niece Maisie, as well as countless family, friends and coworkers at Granite Telecommunications where she was admired as a valued employee with lists of accolades. Husband Glenn shares memories of the late Kerensa Irvin on our Podcast Breast Cancer Conversations L ose the Tumor Keep the Humor Let's Get Married Recurrence, Progression, and Passing Stay in Touch If you have a memory, story, or photo you'd like to share, please email it to info@survivingbreastcancer.org and we will add it to this page.

TISCHLER--Alyson, beloved wife of John Eberhart, adored and adoring mother of Simon, cherished daughter of Beth and Warren Tischler, loving sister of Jonathan Tischler and his wife, Eiko, dear aunt of Emi and Nina, niece, cousin and friend to all she met. She passed away peacefully at home in Woodbridge, CT on April 9, 2021. A 1995 Phi Beta Kappa and High Honors graduate of Wesleyan University, Alyson earned her MA and Ph.D. from the University of Michigan in English Literature in 2000. She was a Vice President of Material Plus, a marketing firm, with her primary focus being pharmaceutical and healthcare research. In recent years, she became a patient advocate in the triple negative breast cancer community, a source of support and strength to others on the same journey. Hear Alyson on our Podcast Breast Cancer Conversations What Treatments Are Available for TNBC (as of 2020) Clinical Trials 101 How to Build Trust with your Medical Team If you have a memory, story, or photo you'd like to share, please email it to info@survivingbreastcancer.org and we will add it to this page.

Emily Rees Garnett died on March 29, 2020, 28 months after being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. She was 35 years old. Emily was born in Phoenix on March 19, 1985, the first child of Brian and Barbara Rees. She graduated from Xavier College Preparatory in 2003 where she was a 4-year state finalist in the breaststroke and co-captain of the swim team. She continued swimming at Scripps College and was named the Scripps Alumnae Athlete of the year upon graduation. Always seeking adventure, Emily moved to Manhattan after college and began working as a case manager for Housing Works, an AIDS/HIV advocacy group. This work led her to law school and she graduated from CUNY School of Law in 2012. Emily was admitted to the New York Bar after graduation and worked in NYC as an elder law attorney focusing on guardianships, capacity issues, special needs issues, and public and private benefits. Emily was known in the New York Surrogate Court as a detail-oriented, dedicated professional. In 2012, Emily married Christian Garnett and they welcomed their son, Felix, in November, 2015. In 2017, Emily, Christian, and Felix moved to suburban Mt. Kisco after a decade of living in the city. In November 2017, two days after her son's second birthday, Emily was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and given a life expectancy of 2-3 years. After her diagnosis, Emily became a relentless advocate for breast cancer awareness. Emily began documenting her illness, treatments, and life in her blog, Beyond the Pink Ribbon, to foster dialogue surrounding metastatic breast cancer. In addition to her blog, her writing on health issues was published by Women's Media Center, Scary Mommy, Coffee+Crumbs, CURE Magazine and Healthline. In February 2019, she walked the runway for AnaOno in New York Fashion Week to bring awareness to metastatic breast cancer raising $100,000 for research. Emily was a member of the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance's Patient Advisory Advocacy Group and served as an ambassador for the Breast Cancer Research Fund. In this capacity, she appeared in a New York Times ad campaign and was featured on a billboard in Times Square. This last year, she was named WEGO Health's Rookie of the Year for advocacy work across numerous social media channels. In addition to her blog and advocacy work, Emily hosted a podcast, The Intersection of Cancer and Life, which featured candid, honest and often funny accounts of the realities of life with cancer. She appeared on Entertainment Tonight with Giuliana Rancic to talk about cancer and was featured in a YouTube episode of Binging with Babish. Last October, she traveled to Washington DC to lobby congress for increased funding for breast cancer. But Emily's real legacy lay with the countless individuals with whom she connected daily. Persons who read her blog or listened to her podcast sought her out and she always made time to speak to them, offering advice and counsel. Emily is survived by her husband, Christian, their son, Felix, parents, Brian and Barbara Rees, her brother, Patrick Rees, paternal grandparents, Paul Rees and Donna Rees Canfield, maternal grandmother, Beverly Morgan, numerous, aunts, uncles, cousins and their children. In her last effort to shed light on this devastating disease, Emily donated her tissue to Memorial Sloan Kettering for research. No funeral arrangements were possible due to the Covid 19 quarantine. A reception honoring Emily's life took place in NY once it was safe to gather. Hear Emily on our Podcast Breast Cancer Conversations When Two Podcasters Finally Connect Stay in Touch If you have a memory, story, or photo you'd like to share, please email it to info@survivingbreastcancer.org and we will add it to this page.

Ilene loved writing, drawing, jewelry making, music, and all things vintage and antique. Reading and learning and laughing and singing and dancing and hiking and just meditating. A little gentle yoga and hikes in the Sierra foothills of California certainly keep things interesting. Equally as important she enjoyed guest blogging and writing for publications. Her cancerversary was on March 25th – diagnosed de novo – from the beginning – with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. I have lived 7 years beating the savage average mortality of 2-3 years. Ilene was forced into retirement at the age of 49 and started her blog, the Cancer Bus and a small Etsy business as well as completing healing circle training through Healing Circles Global. Ilene was a member of the metastatic breast cancer community and especially active on Twitter @ilenealizah. She was also a friend, sister, wife, stepmom, and cat mom to Simon. Hear Ilene on our Podcast Breast Cancer Conversations I was Told I Had 3 Months to Live What Inspires You To Write? Pink Culture. Bridging the Gap Between Stage 0-4 Why "How Are You?" is such a Weighted Question Breast Cancer Poetry Read Ilene's Poetry Live With Your Questions It's Another Thing Now The Last Poet Standing Insomniac Stage IV Read Ilene's Content on our SBC Blog The Healing Circle Framework Healing Circles and Breast Cancer Stay in Touch If you have a memory, story, or photo you'd like to share, please email it to info@survivingbreastcancer.org and we will add it to this page.

“I was 23 years old when I noticed a small lump in my breast. My doctor told me not to worry. It was probably just a cyst. One week later, I got a call that the “cyst” was actually an aggressive form of breast cancer. After a grueling year of chemotherapy and radiation, I had lost a sense of identity after shaving my shoulder length red hair. I no longer trusted my body, but I anticipated the worst was behind me. I was 25 years old when my cancer came back. I decided to remove both breasts to ensure that this would be my last time dealing with this disease. While I planned my double mastectomy, surgeons said nothing about the possibility of the cancer spreading into other parts of my body after the surgery. I was 28 years old when I was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer. If my story can help even one person it’ll be worth it.” Melissa was 32 when metastatic breast cancer stole her from this world. Melissa’s Legacy Melissa believed in the power of film and spent her life using that power to support women and mend impacted by cancer around the world. We at the Melissa & Jimmy Boratyn Foundation aim to live up to the standard she set by creating art that makes an impact. Hear Melissa on our Podcast Breast Cancer Conversations Ginger the Movie - Interview with Melissa and Jimmy Stay in Touch If you have a memory, story, or photo you'd like to share, please email it to info@survivingbreastcancer.org and we will add it to this page.

Kristin Lynn "Kristie" Konsoer, age 51, peacefully returned home to God on Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021, after living over nine years with breast cancer. I was born on May 30, 1970, in Madison, the daughter of Donald and Carol (Christensen) Konsoer, and grew up in Middleton, Wis. I loved Sunday visits with grandma on the farm outside of Wisconsin Dells. School was also one of my favorite places. I loved learning so much that I would often play school when I got home each day. I was a lifelong reader, writer, and learner. Over the years, I was fortunate to have traveled widely throughout the U.S. and visited 26 countries. Family vacations held many favorite memories for me. Disney World, national parks-Yellowstone in particular-and Fish Creek in Door County are forever in my heart. After graduating from Middleton High School in 1988, I went on to UW-Madison where I received my B.S. in elementary education in 1993, and my M.S. in curriculum and instruction in 1999. As part of the Portage Community School District, I taught split grades for nine years in Endeavor, Wis. One of those years was spent teaching in Edinburgh, Scotland, as part of the Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program. In 2002, I was hired to teach in Middleton-Cross Plains. I taught at West Middleton and my alma mater, Elm Lawn, for 14 years before I needed to choose a very, very early retirement. Over my 23 years as a teacher, I was blessed to teach grades 1-4, and roughly 543 students. I loved being a teacher. It is what I always wanted to do and thankfully what I was able to do for many years. One of my friends once told me that the skills and abilities I gave my students would stay with them beyond the classroom. I hope I played a small role in forming individuals who can think and be kind to another. I loved nature and walking on trails shrouded by trees. They offered peace and energy to my soul. Gallistel Woods at the UW Arboretum and making the trek to the top of the hill at Pheasant Branch were favorite places to relax, where the journey itself was every bit a part of the destination. Birdwatching was another favorite hobby of mine. Chickadees, cardinals, and the tiny but strong voiced wren always made me smile. I would be remiss if I didn't mention my love for Badgers football. Badgers are very special fans, as were my Badgers companions. I was lucky to span over four decades of games cheering on the team with my father, then my mother, and finally my sister. Go Badgers! Throughout my years living with cancer, it was very important to me to change perceptions about those living with metastatic cancer. More people are living stronger and better than ever before with cancer. Live in a future built on hope, resiliency, and positivity. I appreciated every ounce of support I ever received, but I saw it as my responsibility to create a mindset geared toward surviving and thriving. I was not going to be put in a box of medical timelines and what others expected or told me I could or could not do. If you are someone reading this who has cancer, politely make it very clear to anyone who gets in your way that you are living in a space of wellness. You have moved beyond the medical classifications of your health and do not accept discussing your health in unhealthy or disparaging terms. Thank you. I hope I am remembered as kind and giving. Some may remember me for my chocolate chip cookies and brownies, and that is fine and good. I want to take a moment to say giving is one of the truest joys in life. Whereas it's tradition to receive gifts on your birthday, many of us may be missing the opportunity to take this day as a chance to give back. My birthday was one of a couple days per year that I would quietly donate to a charity that was important to me. I would like to pass this tradition on to whomever it appeals. You are here on purpose. I am preceded in death by my parents and survived by my sister, Julie (James) Ackerman, as well as many extended family and much-loved friends. I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. David Hei, Dr. Kari Wisinski, my angel nurses, and the entire staff at the UW Carbone Cancer Center. I am also very thankful to Dr. John Ewalt and Associated Physicians for a lifetime of healthcare. I survived many things in my life, most of them good. I believe I will also survive my death. Rest assured, right now I'm doing really, really well. Yes, I would rather have stayed here to laugh more, make more of a difference, and enjoy life, but leave all those things for you to do and to do them well. God bless. Read Kristie's Articles Empathy and Cancer Hear Kristie on our Podcast Breast Cancer Conversations On Empathy & to Withhold Judgement Stage V Breast Cancer. Living on My Own Terms Stay in Touch If you have a memory, story, or photo you'd like to share, please email it to info@survivingbreastcancer.org and we will add it to this page.