Personal Stories
After undergoing treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in 2023, Deneil Baldwin believed the hardest days were behind her. Two years later, she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. As she faced another round of treatment and difficult surgical decisions, her son found his own meaningful way to support her and help others affected by breast cancer.
How your support helped make Gail’s Law a realityBy: Nikki Panico When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 39, I never imagined where that journey would lead me. Today, as a two-time breast cancer survivor and Executive Director of Susan G. Komen Wisconsin, I have the privilege of meeting incredible people every day: survivors, […]
After facing breast cancer three times, including a metastatic breast cancer (MBC) diagnosis in 2018, Winnie Marquart is using her experience to help others. As the 2026 honorary chair for the Wisconsin MORE THAN PINK Walk, she hopes to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, access to high-quality care and research.
Maty was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. “I was in shock, but I was also in ‘let’s get this done mode,’” she said. “The doctor had given recommendations for an oncologist, a radiologist, and a breast surgeon. I was already making appointments. I was ready to get things done, to move on.”
After losing her mother to metastatic breast cancer just two weeks after her diagnosis, Amber was left searching for a way to honor her memory. Today, she’s turned her grief into purpose by fundraising for the Houston Race for the Cure.
Keisha has found that her personal experiences with breast cancer have made her more compassionate at work – and more of an advocate for others. “I was 32 and that’s young for a breast cancer diagnosis,” Keisha said. “I tell people it’s just so important to know your body. You know your body best. If something doesn’t seem right, tell someone. Go to the doctor. It could be nothing, but it could be something.”
Dina and Caleb were planning their wedding when everything changed: Dina learned she had stage 1 breast cancer. “I actually learned I had breast cancer the same day as my bridal shower,” Dina said. Suddenly, what should have been a happy time was filled with doctor visits and tests.
One student. One mission. A conversation about breast health, community and showing up for the people you love. Yaleska is a junior studying biological sciences and global health at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. When she heard about the Komen College Ambassador Program, she didn’t hesitate in signing up. This Women’s Health Month, we sat down with her to talk about what brought her here, what she’s learned and what she wants every young woman on her campus to know; read below, in her own words. Why did you sign up to become a Komen College Ambassador? After being scheduled for a mammogram, I realized that having breast cancer was possible at my young age. I wanted to make a difference in my campus by educating both men […]
In March of this year, Cherie went in for her annual mammogram, expecting it to be fine. This time, the radiologist said there was a mass on her left breast. “Having regular mammograms helped my doctor find my cancer early,” she said.
In June 2021, Gynna learned she had metastatic breast cancer. As her treatment plans have shifted, she’s learned to embrace adaptability. “When the plan changes, you don’t stop. You find a new route,” she said.
For Kim, staying positive and leaning on her community helped her navigate her breast cancer journey. Through moments of uncertainty, she found strength in the support of those around her.
At 25, Harley never expected to become a caregiver for her mom after a breast cancer diagnosis. But when her mother, Kim, was diagnosed in 2023, Harley stepped into the role of caregiver.
