In late May 2025, after an insurance change, I scheduled a routine mammogram and was able to get one the same day. Two days later, I was notified of abnormal results. After a diagnostic mammogram and biopsy, I was diagnosed with DCIS—Stage 0 breast cancer, grade 2. An MRI later confirmed the diagnosis and showed a broader area of concern. This all happened just weeks before I competed at APO Nationals in powerlifting, which I went on to complete before beginning the next phase of appointments and planning. Because I qualified for APO Worlds, my oncologist and I agreed it was reasonable to delay a double mastectomy until after November while managing the cancer with medication. Training and competing during treatment was extremely difficult, but I did it.

A follow-up mammogram showed minimal change, and my husband and I decided to schedule surgery for January 2026. Due to being on blood thinners from prior blood clots, my reconstruction must be done in stages, meaning I’m facing up to three surgeries instead of two. My first surgery, a double mastectomy, is scheduled for January 19, 2026, followed by additional surgeries over the months after. I do not qualify for FMLA until late March and will have limited paid time off, resulting in lost wages not fully covered by short-term disability. Between medical expenses, time off work, travel, and medications, we are estimating a financial gap.

I am not one to ask for help. I am usually the person swooping in for others, so this is really hard for me to ask for help. Any support during this time means so very much to Jon and I. If you’d like to help, any monetary support is deeply appreciated. If you’re local, Jon and I would be grateful for help with household tasks, errands, cooking, or even just keeping me company for a walk or a movie. Your support in any form means more than I can express.