On February 4, 2021, I was diagnosed with  breast cancer at the age of 36. At the time, I was overwhelmed with the financial impact and my course of treatment. But, in that diagnosis, I was also given a business card for BCRC.

BCRC is so embedded in this community. After being diagnosed, I tried so hard to cling onto myself. I didn't want to lose the things I held dear. However, each step in treatment beat me down. However, BCRC was there to pull me back up. I am not the same person as before, but they have helped me find passions again - the Paddles with a Purpose dragon boat team, Team Survivor, the Compass Crew, the virtual support groups, the patient navigators and more. It's these things that change you and help put you back together again. BCRC reminded me that I am not alone and that I may have to change course, but I am not lost.

The mission of BCRC is so important to all of those affected by breast cancer. My experience would not be the same without BCRC. I know this to be true for many others in the Austin-area. This group not only helps save lives, but it helps reform lives. The success of this event will help BCRC continue to uphold its mission. It's also an important event to share breast cancer with the community. It's not just a disease or illness, it's a person. This helps bring awareness to the community by lifting up those affected by breast cancer.

I am raising funds to help those that will hear the words “you have breast cancer” find a path forward. Breast Cancer Resource Center is critical in helping find that path forward.