I am a two-time breast cancer survivor.

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It was Memorial Day weekend 2012 when I found a round, tight lump just under the skin on my left breast. It was distinct and hurt to the touch. At first, I thought I’d pulled a muscle, but when it didn’t recede within a week, I called my doctor.  

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At the hospital during an ultrasound, I remember feeling queasy as I thought, please don’t let this be anything dangerous, like breast cancer. I was 39. I was happy, healthy and hard at work at event production firm, Ward & Ames Special Events.

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That day my life was turned upside down. I was diagnosed with two types of breast cancer - invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). After much thought, I made the decision to have a double mastectomy. Thankfully, all nine of the lymph nodes removed were benign.

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Late in 2014, only nine months after my last reconstructive surgery, I found another lump, but this time in my left armpit. It, too, was IDC breast cancer. For me, 2015 was a blur of tests, surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and then, finally remission!

During my treatment, I met two women who were distraught over their “new” self-image and worried about keeping up with the responsibilities of both work and family. They were also struggling financially, so purchasing a pricey wig was not an option. I could empathize with their life as a cancer patient and was fortunate to be able to give each woman a wig I had purchased for myself. The transformation in them was profoundly evident, inspiring me to create a non-profit to try and help thousands of women like them struggling to maintain their sense of self.

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My experience with cancer has changed me. I have dedicated myself fully to helping extraordinarily brave women in need while on their journey to overcome cancer.

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It brings me great personal satisfaction to continue to build the organization and carrying out its mission. WIG OUT heals my soul knowing that I am helping one wig at a time. I hope you will join me.

 

Love,

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Nancy