Joi White was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2024. A tech industry professional, entrepreneur and now a breast cancer survivor, Joi found clarity after treatment. This is her story in her own words.
A Family History
My mom is a two-time breast cancer survivor, so I knew this could be a possibility for me, but I always thought I’d be older. My mom was well into her 50s when she was first diagnosed. We did learn through genetic testing that we don’t have a BRCA inherited gene mutation.
At the beginning of January 2024, I went in for my annual exam with my gynecologist. I’ve been under her care since 2013 and she was well aware of my family history. During my exam, she felt something in my breast and she wanted me to get it checked out immediately.
A Biopsy Reveals Breast Cancer
At the beginning of February, I had a biopsy and two days later, my doctor called and said I had breast cancer. I’m a very results-driven person, so when I heard that I thought, okay, what needs to be done? I needed to find solutions and move forward. I was just processing what I needed to do. A lot of the emotions and feelings about it came later.
Treatment Hits a Snag
We didn’t think I’d need chemotherapy, I was going to have a lumpectomy and radiation afterwards. But after my surgery, the doctor realized she didn’t get all of the cancer, so I had a second lumpectomy four weeks later. At that point, she recommended chemotherapy. Once I finished chemo, I had another surgery so my doctor could look at the margins.
Adverse Reaction to Radiation
Radiation has been the worst part of this experience. Unfortunately, I had an adverse reaction to it and developed a bad infection. I noticed my incision from surgery was starting to look different, so I went to urgent care and they sent me to the emergency room where, thankfully, my surgeon was doing rounds. I’ve maybe cried twice during this whole journey, and this was one of the times that I did. It was the roughest time imaginable.
Wound Care
It turns out I developed strep in my breast. The infection was awful. My doctor referred me to a wound care specialist and I’ve been under his care for months. I have to pack the wound every single day and I had 20 hyperbaric oxygen treatments. I’m scheduled for surgery at the end of August to close up the wound, then at some point I’ll be able to move forward with breast reconstruction.
Finding Clarity After Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Breast cancer changed my outlook by giving me clarity. It made me radically intentional. I no longer pour into spaces or people who don’t honor me. Now I protect my peace. I trust my intuition. I show up fully, even if that means resting when I need to.
This Was Not a Blessing in Disguise
Nothing about cancer is good. Nothing about it is a ‘blessing in disguise.’ But if I’m being honest, I needed a break. I spent years running myself into the ground, subscribing to the belief that I could rest later. Hustle culture convinced me that my worth was tied to productivity. That sleep was for when I was dead. That pushing through stress was a badge of honor.
Switching Priorities
This past year forced me to reassess everything. To prioritize what actually matters. To acknowledge that while I love my work, I am not my job. Currently, I move with intention. I still have ambition, but I’m no longer sacrificing my health. Now I set boundaries and I remove toxic people from my life. I rest, not just because I earned it, but because I deserve it.
Put Yourself & Your Health First
If you’re reading this and feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck in the cycle of just pushing through, take this as your sign. Health comes first. You come first. At the end of the day, the work will always be there. The question is: will you?
Tapping Into My Purpose
What gave me strength during treatment was tapping into my purpose and remembering how much I still had to give, not just to myself, but to the people I love, especially my son. Even when I was exhausted from treatment or emotionally drained, I reminded myself: you’re still a queen. That reminder became my fuel.
If You’re Newly Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
My advice to someone newly diagnosed: You are not weak for being scared. And you are not alone. Give yourself grace. Speak up for yourself. Even now, as I deal with the lingering effects of radiation and painful wound care, I still pour into my creativity. I still show up for myself and for others. Cancer sucks, but I refuse to let it take me down. I keep going.
Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.
