Meet Elizabeth, a 31-year-old woman from Middlesex County, found her world turned upside down in late 2024 when she was diagnosed with triple-negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, stage 1B. What began as an unsettling lump in August quickly escalated into a life-altering journey. With her husband by her side, she pursued immediate medical attention—an act that ultimately saved her life. Though her initial doctor couldn't confirm a diagnosis, the scans and biopsy that followed made it clear: this was cancer. Her biopsy was flagged as Bi-Rads 5—indicating a 95% chance of malignancy—and she would soon learn she also carried the BRCA1 gene mutation, making her fight more complex.

By December 26th, Elizabeth underwent a partial mastectomy and began chemotherapy by the end of January 2025. She bravely enrolled in a chemotherapy clinical trial, completed four rounds of treatment, and opted for cold-capping in an effort to preserve her hair. As she transitioned to the next stage—radiation—Elizabeth remained grounded by routine and driven by the confidence her doctors had in her treatment plan.

Her greatest challenges weren’t just medical, but emotional and personal—missing time with her stepson, saying no to things she once loved, and navigating the mental fog that often accompanied treatment. Yet through it all, her husband was her rock, standing beside her at every appointment. Her coworkers even rallied around her, organizing gift cards and care baskets to lift her spirits during the hardest days.

Elizabeth finds peace in hiking and walking—though now with more breaks than before. She’s working on regaining her strength and rediscovering her rhythm post-treatment. Therapy has helped her process the overwhelming mental toll of a months-long fight for her life, and she now allows herself to take things one day at a time.

Her hopes for the future are simple yet powerful: to be cancer-free and live a long, full life. “Since I was diagnosed so young,” she says, “there’s always the fear it could come back. But I try not to let that stop me from moving forward.”

Elizabeth’s message to others is clear: Get your screenings, especially if you’re under 40. And if someone in your life is facing cancer, support them in the way that matters most—whether that’s listening, helping with meals, or simply being there.

We were introduced to Elizabeth’s story through one of our amazing volunteers, and we immediately knew we wanted to help. Fightstrong Foundation was proud to donate a Kindle, reading accessories, gift cards for books and food, and more—giving her moments of peace and escape during treatment, and some comfort during recovery.

Elizabeth, we love you and are so proud to be part of your journey.