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.

A Family History of Breast Cancer

For nearly three decades, breast cancer has been a recurring part of Winnie’s life, shaping her experiences, her family and her perspective on the importance of early detection and access to care.

Her aunt and sister have been diagnosed with breast cancer, although genetic testing has not identified a known gene mutation to explain the family history. As a mother of three daughters and one son, Winnie understands the concerns that can come with a family history of the disease.

She also recognizes the importance of regular screening.

From the First Mammogram to Recurrence

At 39, Winnie had her first screening mammogram. She never expected it to lead to a breast cancer diagnosis. After follow-up tests confirmed she had HER2-positive breast cancer, she underwent a lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy.

Five years later, Winnie experienced a sharp, persistent pain in her armpit. When she felt the area, she discovered a lump. Initially, she assumed the pain was related to scar tissue. Her doctors told her the only way to know for sure was through surgery.

“I woke up from surgery to the doctor saying my cancer had returned,” she said. “My first thoughts were of my husband and my kids. I was scared for them. It hadn’t hit me yet that I might not see my kids grow up.”

After some moments of sadness, loss and panic, Winnie met with her doctor to learn about her treatment plan.

“I now knew what I needed to do to survive,” she said.

This time, Winnie’s treatment plan included chemotherapy and radiation therapy. She moved forward with a positive outlook, but a call from her brother changed everything. Their father was diagnosed with bile duct cancer and his prognosis was grim.

“I was stunned and overwhelmed that this could be happening to both of us at the same time,” she said. “It was so hard to be positive while knowing there was not much they could do for my father.”

Facing a Metastatic Breast Cancer Diagnosis

For 15 years, Winnie’s follow-up appointments showed no evidence of disease. That changed in 2018.

“I had almost forgotten that I had cancer,” she said. “I was feeling great! Then, I ran into my oncologist who told me I owed him a blood test. I hadn’t scheduled any appointments because I felt I had beaten it.”

Winnie scheduled an appointment and left town, confident that everything was fine. She then received a call saying that she needed to come back in for additional tests due to elevated tumor markers. Those tests confirmed Winnie’s breast cancer had returned and metastasized (spread) to her liver.

Finding Strength in a Simple Message

“Stage 4 is a scary diagnosis; I know it left my kids scared,” she said. “They couldn’t stay home and come to every treatment with me, so the idea of sending them a picture from each of my treatments with a shirt with a positive message on it would help them realize I was doing good.”

Winnie’s “Beat Breast Cancer” shirts became a source of encouragement and positivity, as well as a reminder of her strength throughout her experience.

Ongoing Treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer

Today, Winnie continues to receive trastuzumab (Herceptin) infusions every three weeks as a part of her ongoing treatment.

“The advances in research and the treatments that have been developed have given me more time, more moments with my family, more memories and more opportunities to make a difference,” she said. “I am so thankful for the organizations and researchers who are making these breakthroughs possible.”

Using Her Voice to Advocate for Others

“The success of the recent passage of Gail’s Law in Wisconsin is truly remarkable. As someone who has experienced firsthand how critical early detection and timely access to care are, I am so proud that my home state has taken a leadership role in putting women’s health first.”

Winnie Marquart

After 27 years and three breast cancer diagnoses, Winnie remains grateful for the resources and support that have helped her move forward.

“I feel so fortunate that I have access to the best health care, that I have health insurance, and that I have such a supportive family and friends,” she said. “I truly believe in the importance of early detection and regular screening.”

Winnie also understands that access to screening and care can make a life-changing difference. She is particularly proud of the recent passage of Gail’s Law in Wisconsin, which removes financial barriers to certain diagnostic breast cancer screenings.

Joining the Wisconsin MORE THAN PINK Walk

For Winnie, advocacy is personal. She knows that early detection, timely treatment, access to high-quality care and advances in research have all played a role in giving her more time with the people she loves.

As the 2026 honorary chair for the Wisconsin MORE THAN PINK Walk, she is sharing her story to inspire others.

“Serving as the honorary chair is my way of supporting Komen and helping ensure others have access to the same hope, care and lifesaving treatments that have allowed me to continue living with this disease,” she said.

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 healthcare provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.