Dana’s Story

I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer three months postpartum with my son while breastfeeding. I underwent six months of chemotherapy, followed by a double mastectomy. Two weeks later, expanders were placed, but unfortunately, they resulted in a rare infection, requiring immediate hospitalization and removal. Currently, I am healing from the trauma my body has endured over the last ten months. However, I recently discovered through a routine CT scan that I have three blood clots in my lungs, so I have begun treatment for that as well.

It has been an intense year of fighting for my health, advocating for myself, and trying to heal while caring for my son through all the baby phases and my two-year-old daughter. My husband is my rock, and I am deeply grateful for the support system provided by my family and friends. I still need to undergo a hysterectomy this year as I am BRCA1+, but that will be in the fall. Hopefully, I can look forward to breast reconstruction next year, as unfortunately, my body is currently in a mangled state, making it difficult to see myself this way. Thank you so much for all that you do. <3

-Dana