Impact Stories
Ascension Borgess Foundation
From survivor to advocate: Katie’s breast cancer journey
Katie’s journey with breast cancer highlights the importance of early detection and resilience. Having witnessed her mother and aunt battle the disease, she learned about courage long before her own diagnosis.
Today, as an Estrogen+, HER2 breast cancer survivor, Katie's path was unexpected. What started as a routine breast reduction appointment turned into a shocking stage 1A cancer diagnosis after further testing. With the support of a dedicated medical team at Ascension Borgess, she navigated a series of mammograms, CT scans, and surgeries. She learned she had the HER2 gene, which could have taken her life in as little as a year if it had been left undetected.
Facing this news was terrifying, especially with two young daughters, but Katie was grateful for the early detection that allowed her to fight. Unfortunately, many women do not have the same chance.
Programs like Tree of Love are essential in providing access to early detection testing. Through community donations, these initiatives offer vital resources and support to women facing similar challenges.
Katie’s story underscores the impact of early detection and community support. Thanks to generous contributions, more women can find hope and strength in their journeys. Together, we can advocate for early screening, ensuring every woman has the opportunity to face cancer with courage.
