About a month ago, my life changed in an instant! As a single mom, my first thoughts went straight to Ben (my son) and my mom (who recently lost my dad, her best friend), so losing her daughter isn't an option.

I was in the process of starting a new job (actually that afternoon) when my oncologist told me it would be best if I focus on my health instead of worrying all the time if I can make it to work or having to call out.

The advice he gave me was right when I unexpectedly landed myself in the hospital for 3 days after having my port put in and having my right lung collapse.

My treatment starts in 2 weeks down at Yale, New Haven Hospital. I will be participating in a clinical trial that will hopefully pave the way for future generations of women with HER2-positive breast cancer. The trial has had wonderful results, and they will be tracking my progress every 3 weeks to determine if it's working or if we need to change directions!

I have the best team around me and believe wholeheartedly that the outcome will be positive, and I will be around long enough to see my son grow up!

During this time, I have little income coming in and have no idea how I'm going to provide for my son and me and try to make these 6 plus months ahead of us as normal as I can!

I feel very uncomfortable reaching out like this, but I honestly don't know what else to do!

I can promise you all that I will pay it forward to others who are facing unexpected hardship, and I will forever be grateful for all the love and support I've received!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Katie and Ben