When Life Changes in an Instant: My Story and a Message for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
I was 27 years old and pregnant when I heard the words that would change my life forever: you have breast cancer. In that moment, everything shifted. My world - filled with anticipation for new life - suddenly collided with fear and uncertainty. I had to learn, very quickly, how to navigate one of life’s most unexpected turns. But in that journey came perspective, strength, and purpose.
Today, as I look back, I see that this experience shaped not only who I am as a person, but also why I do what I do. It’s because I’ve lived through the unexpected that I am so passionate about helping families prepare, so that even when life changes in an instant, they can find peace of mind knowing their loved ones are protected.
Because life happens when we least expect it.
As an ode to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I want to share a few reminders from my story to yours:
💗 Do a self-breast exam. It saved my life - and my child’s. Early detection makes all the difference.
💗 Men can get breast cancer too. I inherited a genetic mutation from my dad. Awareness and testing aren’t just for women.
💗 Most breast cancers aren’t inherited. Fewer than 10% of cases are due to genetics, so don’t skip screenings just because you don’t have a family history.
💗 Simple lifestyle changes help. Limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and being mindful about hormone therapies have all been shown to reduce risk. Science rocks.
💗 There is no cure - research is still needed. Progress has been made, but we must continue to support research and advocate for better treatments. Our Stage IV sisters need more.
💗 Above all, there is hope. My child is living proof that even in the darkest times, light lives.
My experience with cancer opened my eyes to how quickly life can change - and how important it is to be prepared for the unexpected. That’s why I’m passionate about helping others put essential estate planning documents in place: a trust, will, and healthcare directives that ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. These tools aren’t just legal documents; they are gifts of peace, clarity, and love for the people who matter most.
Before the end of this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I invite you to reach me at (619) 273-3329 to get started on creating your own peace-of-mind estate plan … so that when life’s unexpected moments happen, you and your family are prepared.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about ribbons or campaigns - it’s about stories, resilience, and community. Every reminder shared, every check, every conversation started has the power to save a life.
So, from one survivor, mom, and estate planning attorney to you: take care of yourself, cherish your loved ones, and never underestimate the strength within you. 💗
