Name- Chelsey

Age- 37

Occupation – Full time Mom, volunteer with Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Spring Run Elementary PTA, and Birkdale Community

Children- Alex 9, Jenna 7

When were you diagnosed?  Diagnosed in 1999 at the age of 24. Diagnosed with second cancer in 2007 at the age of 33.

How was it found? Both lumps were found through self-exam

Do you have a family history of breast cancer?  NO

As a woman what gives you your strength? I draw strength from my faith in God, my devotion to family and girlfriends, and my belief that I am here to live my best life.

Briefly state in your own words something about yourself that you want people to know.

Chelsey contributes her survival to the fateful pairing of college roommates between herself with a girl whose mother was a breast cancer survivor. Through this friendship, “breast cancer” became a familiar term and self-exams were emphasized. Chelsey supported her friend’s family as they mourned a woman who lost her battle with breast cancer in her late 30’s. The message that “you are never too young for breast cancer” stayed with Chelsey.

It is for this reason that Chelsey sought volunteer work with Susan G. Komen for the Cure after her own experience with breast cancer. She uses her voice and her personal experience to encourage women to be their own health advocate, be diligent about self-breast exams and proper screening, and to bring to light the fact that you are never too young for breast cancer.