I'm doing the bike leg of the Chicago Triathlon to stay connected to a sport I love while I'm continuing treatment for breast cancer.
I was diagnosed October 2023, and since then I've had a lumpectomy and completed chemotherapy and radiation treatment. I'll have targeted therapy infusions through November and an annoying hormone-blocking pill to take for 5 years. But I'm doing it!
Connecting with other cancer survivors who are athletes has been critical for my mental health. Exercising throughout my treatment has been critical in managing symptoms.
I've had the gift—a true blessing—to have health insurance, excellent company benefits, and amazing support from friends and family that allowed me to take time off of work to focus on wellness and recovery. This has been pivotal! I'm coming out of this a better version of myself. :)
I know I've gotten to this point faster and stronger because I had money and support to do it. Others aren't so fortunate. So, please join me in pitching in to help people who don't have that extra wiggle room in their budget to manage life through cancer treatment—multiple trips in a week to/from treatment on top of all the other costs (beyond doctor bills!).