Ana's Fight against Breast Cancer

I have been a special education teacher for over 20 years. Within that time, I have faced many challenges and obstacles both personally and professionally. I pride myself on my nurturing disposition and having a keen sense of knowing when to reach out and help people. This mindset has always brought fulfillment into my life. Unfortunately, I am now in a situation where I am the one reaching out for help.

I’m on a path that I did not choose. I did not think I would ever be the one to get cancer. I’ve never known this kind of raw fear. When does the fighter come out in me? When do I get to apply my kung fu practice? When do the unannounced tears stop making me look like such a wimp? I am my own calm before the storm. My storm starts on April 24. My first of eight rounds of chemo. 

Prior to this was a mammogram and then a sonogram followed by biopsies. A diagnosis came and then endless MRIs, and scans - and more biopsies. I've got to be honest, I used to fantasize about changing the world for the better one kid at a time. But now my dreams are to keep my family safe while watching them experience different cultures, music, and people - all that this beautiful planet has to offer. 

I have always been able to fight hard for my loved ones but I'm finding that it’s much harder to fight for myself right now. The money that is raised here will go towards my household expenses and keeping my family afloat while I am unable to work.