I was getting ready for a party one night when I felt it. A lump in my breast. My heart sank. At 32, with a family history of breast cancer, I knew something was wrong. And after a few tests, including a biopsy, my worst fears were confirmed: I had stage 3 breast cancer.

As a registered nurse, I was used to taking care of patients, not the other way around. The road ahead was tough. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation – there were days when I wasn't sure if I'd make it through. But I fought, and today I'm cancer-free.

Throughout my journey and in talking to other women going through similar diagnoses, I realized how alone many breast cancer patients feel. And once I'd overcome my cancer, I decided I wanted to help others beyond the bedside. I wanted to support cancer patients by sharing my experiences and offering guidance. So, I became a nurse navigator at the Community Cancer Institute.

Now, I help patients navigate their own cancer journeys, offering a compassionate and informed perspective. I also lead the breast cancer support group, which has grown significantly in the last few years. It's been incredibly rewarding to connect with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of this fight. Working at Community allows me to make a real difference, one patient at a time.