My Story — Written With My Girls’ Hearts

This is incredibly hard for me to write.

My daughters, Hailey (16) and Addison (13), wanted to create this fundraiser for me themselves. They see everything—the pain, the fear, the nights I cry when I think they’re asleep. They aren’t old enough to be sponsors, so I’m writing this with their love guiding every word.

I’m 39 years old and was recently diagnosed with bilateral invasive breast cancer—an extremely rare diagnosis that only 2% of women will ever hear. Even more devastating, I have two different aggressive subtypes at the same time: triple negative AND triple positive (HER2+) breast cancer.

In a matter of weeks, my life changed completely.

I’ve already undergone a double mastectomy, lymph node removal from both armpits putting me at risk of lymphedema, drains, complications, and intense pain. I’m facing additional surgeries, radiation, and possibly chemotherapy. Since October 14, I’ve had over 30 medical appointments, each one filled with overwhelming information and impossible decisions—while I try to stay strong for my girls.

I am a mom of seven—four biological children and three bonus kids (that have given us 6 grandchildren as well)—but at home it’s just me, my husband, and our two youngest daughters. These kids are my world. Some days I push through; other days I collapse from exhaustion, pain, and fear I don’t always let them see.

I haven’t been able to work since diagnosis, and we’ve lost a significant portion of our income. With ongoing treatments, long-distance travel for care, and new medical deductibles approaching, the financial weight has become heavy. At the moment, I am not sure when I will be able to return to work.

Breast cancer runs in my family—my mom battled it at 58. Because of that, I listened to my body and pushed for answers early, which may have saved my life. Now I’m passionate about raising awareness that young women are not immune and that advocating for yourself matters.

Through all of this, my faith has carried me. My husband has cared for me with unwavering love, reminding me daily that God has not left us.

If you feel led to help, please know this:

Even one dollar helps.

Every single donation—no matter the amount—lifts a piece of this burden so I can focus on healing and being the mom my girls need.

If you can’t give, please share.

If you can’t share, please pray.

All of it matters. All of it is felt.

More than anything, I just want to heal.

I want to breathe again.

I want to watch my girls grow up.

And I want them to know their mama fought with everything she had.

Thank you for being here.

Thank you for loving us.

Thank you for helping carry us through this.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11

With gratitude,

Ashley and Family