Jackie Rodriguez

"In 2011, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I couldn’t believe that my first mammogram, at the age of 40, would be my last. Within a few days of my diagnosis I met with my oncologist at the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care where they explained the details surrounding my diagnosis. During the visit I was handed a three ring binder with information pertaining to decisions regarding reconstruction. I felt as though there was no time to think or comprehend what was happening. I was in complete shock and I was at a loss for words. I couldn’t believe that in just a few weeks I’d be having the biggest surgery of my life." Continue reading Jackie's story

Katerina Zhupikov

Katerina was 28 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. "On July 30, a biopsy was ordered on a tumor that was found in my left breast. The biopsy was done on a Friday and I was told I'd receive a phone call on Wednesday with the pathology results. My family and friends kept telling me that there was ‘nothing to worry about.’ At 28 years old, I was ‘too young to have breast cancer.’ There’s ‘no alarming medical or family history’ and that ‘it's probably nothing.’ Fast forward to Wednesday." Continue reading Katerina's story.

Randi Travers

“It all began on Monday, July 16, 2018. I had my yearly mammogram, just as I had done every year since I turned 40. The following day, I received a phone call saying that the picture wasn't clear and that I’d need to come in for an ultrasound on Friday. The results of the ultrasound were inconclusive. The inconclusive results required additional testing, which required another appointment." Contiue reading Randi's story.

Denise Jordan

Rocking white hi-top sneakers, custom-bedazzled at her request by a friend, Denise Jordan illuminated her 50th birthday party with the special sparkle her family and friends know and love. Here’s what many of her guests didn’t know: Denise’s infusion port had been removed that very morning – marking the conclusion of her course of treatment for breast cancer.

“When I was diagnosed, I had two questions: When can I get it done? And how long will I be out of work?” remembers Denise, who served as chief of staff to Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and is now the executive director of the Springfield Housing Authority. Denise crafted her own answer – reporting for chemotherapy or radiation at Baystate Regional Cancer Program’s D’Amour Center for Cancer Care each morning and heading to her City Hall office in the afternoon. Continue reading Denise's story.