Personal Stories
Krystina never imagined she would be diagnosed with breast cancer at 35. Discovering a small lump ultimately led to a diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and the detection of an BRCA1 inherited gene mutation. As she navigated treatment, fertility decisions and the challenges of being a young woman with breast cancer, she found a community of survivors who helped her realize she wasn’t alone.
Breast cancer support has come in many forms for Amanda Crespo, from the care of her oncologist, Dr. Samina Ahmed, to the peer mentor who helped her navigate treatment. Now a peer mentor herself, Amanda will join Dr. Ahmed at the Komen Orange County Pink Tie Party, where Dr. Ahmed will be recognized for her commitment to the breast cancer community as a Pink Tie Partner.
After receiving the news she had breast cancer, Wendy DeWeerd faced her diagnosis head-on. In the midst of treatment, she’s stepping up to do more by sharing her breast cancer story and fundraising to help end breast cancer through her local Race for the Cure.
After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis at 35, Sheila learned she had a BRCA2 inherited gene mutation and faced difficult decisions about surgery and reconstruction. Throughout her experience, she learned the importance of advocating for herself and choosing what was right for her.
Suzanne Engle never thought a small symptom would lead to her first breast cancer diagnosis 20 years ago. Then, after 17 years of clear mammograms, she found herself facing breast cancer again. Today, the two-time breast cancer survivor shares how advances in treatment changed her experience and reinforced her belief in the power of research.
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.
