On November 1, 2010, at the age of 30, I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, just days after learning I was pregnant. Thanks to a dedicated medical team, my treatment plan allowed me to fight for my own life while bringing a new life into the world. I underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy while pregnant.
It was a long, tough battle, that included being terminated from my full-time job, but I got through it with the help of a nationwide team of supporters, nicknamed Team Roxy. Supporters rallied behind me and organized fundraising events in over 20 cities to raise funds for my medical treatment, COBRA insurance premiums and other expenses. I used social media to connect with other survivors, which gave me hope during this trying time.
I used my free time between appointments and treatments to volunteer at my local Susan G. Komen affiliate. I organized a Race for the Cure team. Just days after my seventh round of chemo and while seven months pregnant, I completed the Greater Fort Worth Komen Race for the Cure 5K. A little over a week later, on the day scheduled to be my final chemo treatment, I instead went into early labor and gave birth to my beautiful daughter, Serenity. Born premature, but perfectly healthy, Serenity arrived to let the world know that we had won their fight. The following month, my scans came back clear with no evidence of disease.
It was the overwhelming display of love and support that I received during my journey that led me to establish Team Roxy, an organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness and helping other women battle breast cancer. Through Team Roxy, I provide survivor bags and baskets to newly diagnosed women. I also now lead a young survivor support network at my local cancer center and continue to serve as a volunteer and advocate for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, as well as a Hope for Two volunteer, providing emotional support to women battling breast cancer while pregnant.
To learn more about my story, visit www.team-roxy.com.