ACS: Can you share a little about your breast cancer journey with us? (ex: how you discovered you had it, what treatment was like for you, what your life was like at the time, etc.).

EF: Sixteen years ago, while pregnant, I felt a lump in my left breast which resulted in breast cancer. My main concern was for my daughter to be born with no complications. All my doctors (primary, surgeon, plastic surgeon, gynecologist and baby specialist) worked together and discussed treatments available at that time and had a plan in place even before informing me that I had breast cancer. Within 5 days, I gave birth to my daughter, Gabriella, and began my treatment journey. A week after Gabriella was born, I had surgery and, soon after, chemo, followed by radiation. I am happy to report that Gabriella was born with no issues and now is 16-years-old and I am a 16-year survivor!

ACS: Why is it important to you to support the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer movement? 

EF: I began to support the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 15 years ago because the treatment available in 2006 saved my life and my baby's life. I thought, imagine the innovation in treatment and possibly a cure that can be found by fundraising for this cause. Hence, Team Enza became a fundraising force!

ACS: What would you say to someone battling breast cancer right now? Or to those who may be touched by the disease in the future?       

EF: Stay strong and beautiful! With the treatments available, you will be in great hands! I'm here for you and will support you always!

ACS: Is there anything else you'd like to share?        

EF: ACS does wonderful work with Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, and I am honored to be a part of the team!

ACS: How long ago were you diagnosed with breast cancer?

LB: 2015

ACS: Can you share a little about your breast cancer journey with us? (ex. How you discovered you had it, what treatment was like for you, what your life was like at the time, etc.)

LB: My cancer was discovered during the usual yearly check-up. Faced with surgery and chemo treatments ahead, my loving husband was by my side to support me and encourage me to stay strong. For nearly a year, White Plains Hospital, became a huge part of my life. I am grateful to my surgeon Dr. Sahgal, oncologist Dr Green, the nurses and cheerful staff for providing caring, life-saving treatments.

ACS: How many years have you been cancer free, or are your still undergoing treatment?

LB: Cancer-free since 2016

ACS: Why is it important to you to support the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Movement?

LB: Each year I am honored to join my Houlihan Lawrence co-workers, including many survivors, who work tirelessly to bring the passion, energy and fun to our philanthropic endeavor to raise funds to ensure that the future will one day be free from breast cancer. While attending my very first American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer team leader breakfast I watched a presentation that mentioned a particular chemo that was discovered through research funded by Making Strides – I was receiving that drug and I am here to say the difference this program makes is real and will be the answer to ending this disease.

ACS: How long have you participated in Making Strides? This year will be my 8th year.

LB: I participated in my 1st walk as a newly diagnosed cancer patient in 2015. It was a moving experience, and I was blessed to be joined by my family, friends and co-workers to celebrate the day.

ACS: What would you say to someone battling breast cancer right now? Or to those who may be touched by the disease in the future?

LB: Don’t give up, it will be a tough battle, but you can do it. Take advantage of the programs offered: If you need a ride - call; the Look Good Feel Better Program does wonders for your spirit, need a wig? Soul Ryeders is a great resource! When you are ready the LiveStrong Exercise Program is a fun way to build your strength back up.

ACS: How long ago were you diagnosed with breast cancer?

YL: 16 years ago

ACS: Can you share a little about your breast cancer journey with us? (ex: how you discovered you had it, what treatment was like for you, what your life was like at the time, etc.).

YL: I discovered a lump in my breast when I was doing my self exam. The treatment involved chemotherapy and radiation. It was not an easy journey but thankfully I survived. I had a number of days when I was fatigued and experienced a lot of body pain.

ACS: How many years have you been cancer-free, or are you still undergoing treatment?

YL: 16 years

ACS: Why is it important to you to support the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer movement? 

YL: Because I would like to create more awareness and help to educate folks about the disease. I would like to see less breast cancer and more survivors.

ACS: How long have you participated in Making Strides? 

YL: 18 years

ACS: What would you say to someone battling breast cancer right now? Or to those who may be touched by the disease in the future?       

YL: Stay positive and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when needed. You don’t have to face this challenge alone.

ACS: Is there anything else you'd like to share?        

YL: Getting this diagnosis doesn’t mean life is over. Get the necessary treatment and look at life as a new beginning.