Over the past couple of months, many of you have reached out and asked where I’ve been because I’m usually posting or online somewhere and I love u all for always supporting my passions and family. Because word has started to spread, I felt it was time to share my story and ask for your prayers and support. In late December, I found a lump in my breast. On February 7th, I had a mammogram and ultrasound, and they told me it was an inclusion cyst—“nothing to worry about”—and to follow up in a year. By early April, I felt a swollen lymph node in my right armpit. I went back for another ultrasound at the end of April, and they recommended a biopsy. Something in me just knew something was off, so I requested an MRI, but it was declined. They wanted to “watch and wait” another month, but the swelling didn’t go away. I pushed again for an MRI, was declined a second time, and finally asked for a referral. On June 27th, I got into Mayo Clinic, and the whirlwind began—numerous appointments, tests, and long days back and forth. Because I’m a nurse and had access to my chart, I already had a feeling. But on July 2nd, I got the call no one ever wants to hear: “Angie, I’m sure you’ve seen the results. It’s been confirmed—you have breast cancer.” My husband was with me when I got the call, and I’m so thankful for his strength in that moment. My mind flooded with a thousand thoughts, and the tears came non-stop. Telling my kids and close family was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. After losing my mom—their grandma—to breast cancer just last year, hearing the words “Mom has breast cancer” was devastating. We’ve chosen to be open and honest with our kids, and I pray that helps them process everything. My team at Mayo has been incredible. The plan is chemo, then surgery, and then radiation. It feels overwhelming at times, but I’m trying to focus on one step at a time (not easy for an overthinker like me). This hasn’t been easy to share. I debated posting this for weeks because I didn’t know how to put it all into words. But I’ve been asked to share my journey, and I know how powerful prayer and community can be. One thing I can’t stress enough: I found this through a self-breast exam—not technology. Please, check yourself regularly. Early detection saves lives. And also advocate for yourself, don't quit speaking up!! --- How You Can Help So many of you have asked, “What can we do?” and honestly, your prayers and encouragement mean the world to us. If you feel led to help in other ways, this Give InKind page has options for: Meal sign-ups – to help us through treatment days and recovery. Gift cards – for groceries, gas, and travel to Mayo. Financial contributions – to help offset medical and travel costs. Every bit of support—big or small—makes a difference for our family right now. --- To those who have already reached out, prayed, and loved us through these first steps—thank you. Steve, my kiddos, our family, church, and friends—you’ve been my rock. My medical team has been a blessing, and I am so grateful for each of you standing with me. Please continue to keep our family in your prayers as we face this journey. If you’d like to stay updated or help, this page will be where I share updates and needs along the way. Love you all, Angie 💕