My Story with Breast Cancer

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I thought I’d share my story. During college, my sorority was involved with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. I would help raise money and participate in the Race for the Cure. When I was 20, I discovered a benign lump under my armpit. From that moment on, I vowed to be an advocate for breast cancer awareness.

For the next 20 years, I would either participate or volunteer with the Komen Race for the Cure. Even when my kids were infants, they would join us on the walk.

Then in 2020, life took an unexpected turn. During a routine test, the doctors discovered atypical breast cells (aka pre-pre cancerous cells). I underwent surgery (i.e. lumpectomy) to have them removed. I was relieved to have them removed, but now this meant I would forever be high risk for breast cancer.

My oncologist prescribed medication and advised me to avoid soy and alcohol. Although extremely difficult I obliged (I'm Asian American so soy is in our diets. Plus, I love the occasional glass of wine). I eat a clean diet and work out daily so that my health is at its best. I do this because I want to be around for my kids and my husband.

It has been almost 3 years and I am still cancer-free. Life can be full of surprises, good and bad. I would never have guessed that I would become high risk for breast cancer after dedicating most of my life to breast cancer awareness.

This month, I celebrate all the fighters and remember those who lost the fight. I will continue to spread awareness which is why a portion of our proceeds from every order will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Together, we can find a cure to end this deadly disease.