Erin found her own breast cancer lump in the shower at the age of 27. After going through hell and back to fight it, she is proud to be cancer-free, and she now advocates for organizations like B4BC who teach people how to check themselves and that you are never “too young” to get breast cancer. Here are her words on her 5-year cancer-free anniversary:
“Today is the day. Today I can claim that I am 5-years breast cancer free. As I sit and reflect on the last 5 years as well as the year of surgeries and chemotherapy, I am glad that it all happened when it did, when I was young enough to bounce back and start a healthier lifestyle for the future. I’m surrounded by the most amazing people but friends and family who have been a support the whole time. From the little things of forcing their way into my house after surgery even if I didn’t feel like I should have visitors just to bring me food or a hug, the little notes I received in the mail, the support of my friends at the barn that took care of J while I recovered, Matt Gershik who did more that anyone could ever imagine for me from emptying my drains to so much more, and we weren’t even engaged yet. My family who supported me and made sure I had the best doctors possible, my doctors that cut me open for 12.5 hours 5 years ago today and saved my life (Dr. Jeannie Shen, Leif Rogers, MD, FACS, Max R. Lehfeldt, M.D. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Applebaum). I’m glad I could turn into an advocate for my generation to pay attention to their bodies and be proactive with their health. If I could help even one person catch something early it makes it all worth it. I’m excited for the future and to celebrate everyday.”
