At 27, Kelsey was diagnosed with stage 2B estrogen-positive breast cancer in May 2023. When she felt a slightly tender lump, her primary care physician initially thought it was a cyst. However, an ultrasound and mammogram revealed otherwise. The diagnosis left her in shock and unable to process the information. All she could think about was her fear of dying.

Until her diagnosis, Kelsey had considered herself healthy. Cancer made her realize how precious health is. Being a mother to a toddler during treatment was challenging, but her child brought her joy and gratitude, giving her something to fight for.

Kelsey’s treatment began with AC-T chemotherapy (Adriamycin, cyclophosphamide, and Taxol) to target the fast-growing tumor. However, an allergic reaction to Taxol caused anaphylactic shock, leading to a switch to Abraxane. This experience underscored the importance of self-advocacy. Despite severe fatigue and nausea, she learned to accept her limitations rather than push herself.

A month after finishing chemotherapy, Kelsey underwent a double mastectomy with axillary lymph node removal on the left side and immediate reconstruction. Recovery was challenging, with constant nerve pain and cording, taking almost six months for her to raise her arm above her head. Nearly two months after surgery, she began 16 radiation sessions on the left side.

Currently, Kelsey is on tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), and will take the CDK inhibitor Verzenio (abemaciclib) for two years. She also receives Lupron shots to protect her ovaries from chemotherapy, as she couldn’t undergo fertility preservation.

Kelsey emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, prioritizing medical concerns, and being more aware of one’s body. She hopes to inspire others and live a life of greater appreciation and gratitude, having gained a unique perspective from her cancer journey.