I’ve debated on sharing this news with the world, but after talking with family and friends I have decided to share my journey -- in the hopes of helping someone else and also gaining inspiration, courage, and strength from others going through similar journeys. I’m 39 and have been diagnosed with breast cancer. How in the world did this happen??? I’m too young!!! I’m healthy, I have little kids, I don’t have time for this!!! These are just a few of the million thoughts that flew through my head when the news broke. At the age of 50 (that was too young ), my Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, had a double mastectomy, underwent chemo and radiation, and came out a badass Survivor. She also tested negative for the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes. In the past 3 weeks I also took a genetic cancer test that analyzed 52 different genes for more than 12 types of cancer and came out…..negative for everything. So my Mom and I have come to the conclusion that we have really bad luck. We are the 1 in 8 women who become diagnosed with breast cancer. April 19 I was officially diagnosed with breast cancer (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma) in my left breast. I feel fortunate that this is one of the most common types of breast cancer and is very treatable. May 21 I will start my first of 16 chemotherapy sessions, in the hopes to reduce the tumor sizes before surgery. After chemo will come a double mastectomy, reconstructive surgery, and radiation. I have learned quickly in the past month that breast cancer has come such a long way, even from 15 years ago when my Mom was diagnosed. The research, information, resources, and help available is unbelievable! I have always believed and say often (ask Nate) “everything happens for a reason”. I have not quite discovered the reason, but God has already shown me signs that he chose me for a reason and I will find out why in due time. I have an amazing support system of family and friends that have been and will be supporting me along the way. I will continue to live my life as normally as possible and will continue to work as I’ve found it to be the best distraction. I have a team of Doctors that I am confident in, have given me reassurance that I will be OK, and have worked quickly to get this process started for me. I will continue to stay present and positive. I actually find it therapeutic to talk about -- so I don’t mind talking about it, sharing my diagnosis with others, or asking for opinions/advice. I’ve found that the more people I tell, the more people I find out have or have had cancer at some point in their lives! I know there will bad days and good days, but today is good day! I will continue to post updates throughout my journey and I appreciate your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes. ❤️ These are not ad posts below (lol), but just information I have found helpful thus far along my journey: This book was such a great source of factual information about the basics of breast cancer and insight into the journey ahead. https://www.amazon.com/Breast-Cancer-Survival-Manual-Seventh/dp/1250894999?dplnkId=9cc7c7cb-1aac-4ed7-9eda-6fc82c4f9dfa&nodl=1 An amazing non-profit that was recommended to me to help the girls better understand the changes that are upon me and our family. If you know Emma and Kayleigh, you know they are way too smart for me to attempt to provide any type of explanation that will satisfy their curious minds 😊 Nate and I have given them a the high level overview of what’s happening, but don’t think it’s hit them quite yet. https://wondersandworries.org Who am I without my golden locks??? I’m told there is a 50/50 chance this product will help at least save ‘some’ of my hair. I’m giving it a go and will hope for the best! https://dignicap.com/