The Surprising Device That’s Helping My Joint Pain
Many of the post-cancer meds have left me with relentless joint pain, so lately I’ve been exploring some holistic healing options.
A friend told me she’s been using a vibration plate, so I looked into it and found that “whole body vibration” (WBV) may help reduce joint pain.
The Bravery of Loving Yourself Through It All
On November 18, Brené Brown celebrates her 60th birthday and her words feel especially powerful for anyone navigating cancer.
Brené is known for her research on empathy, vulnerability, shame, and courage—four emotions that show up throughout every cancer patient’s journey.
The Anniversary of the Game-Changer for HER2 Positive Breast Cancer
On November 16, 2006, the FDA approved trastuzumab (Herceptin) for use with chemotherapy in women with HER2-positive breast cancer.
Since then, this targeted therapy has changed the outlook for so many women, including me.
When Kindness and Gratitude Come Full Circle
November 13 is World Kindness Day, and I think we often forget how powerful kindness really is—how much it lifts others and how good it feels in return.
But kindness isn’t one-sided, it’s something we can give back to others too.
Finding Hope in the Kindness of Others
When I was in active treatment for breast cancer, I had to go to the cancer center every three weeks for 14 months.
Over time, I started to recognize the same faces, and while I never wanted to be there, those people made each appointment so much easier.
Rising Rates of Breast Cancer in Women Under 45
Did you know that breast cancer rates among women under 45 increased by about 1% every year in the U.S. from 2012–2022?
And they’re still trending upward today.
How to Help a Friend After a Cancer Diagnosis
“My friend was just diagnosed with cancer. How can I help, or what can I send them?”
That’s the question I get asked most often, and it comes straight from the heart of true caregivers.
Now, as a breast cancer survivor, I’m quick to share the things that made the biggest difference.
Grateful for the Caregivers Who Lifted Me Up
November is National Family Caregivers Month and National Gratitude Month—two things that go hand in hand. 🫶
I am so grateful for all the love, help, and support I received while battling breast cancer, especially from my family.
Beyond October: Make Breast Awareness a Year-Round Habit
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but I like to think of it as a reminder for breast awareness… something that should be a year-round habit.
In the United States, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Halloween Humor: Turning My Post-Chemo Hair into Some Killer 80s Looks
When your hair grows back after chemo it’s exciting… and weird.
The texture is usually different than it was before chemo, and it can grow at different rates. The hair on the top half of my head has been growing more slowly, causing what many call a post-chemo mullet.
A Mentor for the Moment: Shining a Light for Others
Every person has something unique—a trait, a perspective, or a strength—that makes them shine. It’s what sets us apart, but also what draws others toward us.
Some might call it a strength. Others might call it a superpower.
Resources to Thrive with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Every year on October 13, we pause to raise awareness for those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC), or stage IV breast cancer.
MBC occurs when cancer spreads beyond the breast to other parts of the body…
Cancer Ghosting: The Kind of Haunting No One Warns You About
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I learned something few people talk about: sometimes, the ones you expect to show up, don’t.
I thought my friends would be my lifeline. Instead, some of them disappeared.
Their silence was louder than any words.
Anything is Possible With Support
Misty Copeland, a trailblazing ballerina who overcame many struggles and defied odds, reminds us that even the impossible becomes possible with the right support.
Pennsylvania: Leading the Fight Against Breast Cancer
My home state of Pennsylvania is doing AMAZING things to lead the way in the fight against breast cancer… 🎀🥊
My Reconstruction Choice and The Confidence It Gave Me
Today is Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day.
This global movement, now observed in 30+ countries, is dedicated to making sure every breast cancer warrior, previvor, and survivor knows their reconstruction options.
Why It’s Important to Follow Your North Star
Every person has their "why” … their North Star that guides them toward what matters most.
I often talk about the importance of continuing to move forward, each step bringing you closer to the rainbow after the storm.
But your North Star is what keeps you motivated, especially when the path feels uncertain.
Unite for HER Proudly Provides Free Resources and Services
From 2024-2025, Unite for HER served 10,628 breast and ovarian cancer members, providing them with over $21 million in services!
Check out Unite for HER for guidance, tools, and helpful resources.
How I Found Gratitude in a Second Surgery
One year ago today, I had my second breast-cancer-related surgery: a reconstruction revision.
While no surgery is easy, I went into this one more prepared and optimistic than my first.
4 Steps to Reaching Milestones
Over the weekend, I celebrated 2 years cancer-free! 🎉
Something I could barely imagine accomplishing when I was diagnosed with aggressive stage 2 breast cancer at 39.
I didn’t just get here by chance, or on my own.