My name is Kelley. I am the mother of four children, three of whom I have adopted as babies from my sister, who has struggled with substance abuse ever since I can remember. My kids are ages 13 (girl), 12 (girl), 9 (girl), and 7 (boy).

Diagnosis and Treatment: A Devastating Discovery

I was working full-time as a CNA and working on furthering my education in the medical field. One day, I noticed an indentation on my left breast. I went to see a doctor, and she referred me to have a mammogram and ultrasound. They then had me go have a biopsy done, and it revealed devastating news for me and my young family. I had breast cancer at just 30 years old. I did not fully grasp what this meant at first for me, but I knew I would do whatever it took to be here for my children now and in the future.

One week after my diagnosis, I was sent to surgery for a double mastectomy, and this is where they discovered the cancer had spread to my lymph nodes in my underarm, and I would be needing chemotherapy, radiation, and after that countless reconstructive surgeries. I made it through it all, and it was not the slightest bit easy, but I had to stay positive for my family.

The Road to Recovery

Just when I thought this was all behind me, I began to experience a complication with my new implants, and one had to be removed. I am now a candidate for a more invasive surgery to give me the needed skin to support another implant. I am under weight restrictions and cannot lift more than 10 lbs. without the risk of injuring myself. My job requires you to be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs., making it impossible for me to return at this time. I hope with time and physical therapy I will be able to return.

Financial Struggles: A Mother’s Worries

Not having an income to support my family has taken a huge toll on me. I constantly worry about having enough to pay rent or buy groceries or just basic things my kids need. I used up all my life savings and my line of credit in order to survive these past 1.5 years while fighting for my literal life. I am very grateful insurance has covered everything I have needed medically. Thank you for taking the time to hear my story and the struggles I have endured while battling this disease as a mother with young children.