Personal Stories
Shanise learned in October 2020 that she carries two inherited gene mutations, including BRCA2. Three years later, she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. “Hearing those words shattered me,” Shanise said.
Sonja Rideout’s diagnosis of HER2-positive breast cancer – and later the news it had progressed to metastatic breast cancer – changed her life in ways she never imagined. Through uncertainty and evolving treatment plans, she found strength in the Race for the Cure community and has raised nearly $60,000 to help support others facing breast cancer.
In 2023, Jake felt a lump in his armpit. He was initially diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, which was later determined to be stage 3 as more testing was done. In 2024, he learned the cancer had spread (metastasized). Today, Jake is living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), for which there is currently no cure.
Three years after completing treatment for stage 1 breast cancer, Lea learned she had metastatic breast cancer. “My first thought was whether I was going to die,” she said. “Then I started asking questions. It’s important for me to be here for my family.”
Julie Bernstein knew her family history and Ashkenazi Jewish heritage put her at a higher risk for breast cancer, but she was still shocked when she was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009. She fundraises for Komen through the MORE THAN PINK Walk to help create a world without breast cancer.
Alex has a history of breast cancer on both sides of her family. When she was diagnosed at 32, it still came as a shock. Genetic testing revealed she carries the BRCA2 inherited gene mutation, as does her father.
Four years after completing treatment for cervical cancer, Amy learned she had stage 2 triple negative breast cancer. “I was at ease when they told me,” she said. “I knew I needed to stay positive.”
When Luana Maddalena discovered a lump in her breast, she trusted her instincts and sought answers. She soon received a breast cancer diagnosis that would change her life. Since her diagnosis, she’s found inspiration in her community, who rallied around her as she fundraised for the Race for the Cure.
In 2023, Sabrina was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer. “Survival is not just overcoming illness, but holding onto hope, courage and the belief that we’re never alone,” she said.
In 2018, Lakysha learned she had breast cancer. Even in the midst of aggressive treatment, she found pockets of joy. “I’ve learned to cherish the small victories,” she said.
Ash had gender-affirming surgery in October 2022, during which a tumor was found. Weeks later, he learned he had breast cancer. “Transgender people, nonbinary people, men. We get breast cancer, too,” he said.
When Patti Kelly found a small lump before a long-awaited vacation, she never imagined it would lead to a breast cancer diagnosis. Her recovery brought a new purpose: to inspire others and champion the importance of early detection.
