Elea’s Story

In the past five years, I have faced profound loss and unimaginable challenges. My mother, sister and nana—my entire family outside of my husband and children—passed away, leaving me to navigate life without them. In the midst of that grief, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I underwent chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, multiple reconstruction surgeries and radiation, only to be told three months after completing treatment that the cancer had spread to my hips, spine, liver and lungs.

This past year has been my hardest yet. I fought to stay alive through radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis and heart failure. The medications that sustained me also caused an 80-pound weight gain, thyroid disease, diabetes, adrenal insufficiency and avascular necrosis in both hips—leading to bilateral hip replacements. Last July, my airway collapsed, and I fell into a coma, spending a week and a half in the ICU. But I woke up. And I kept fighting.

Since leaving the hospital, I’ve fought to reclaim myself. I lost the weight, transformed my diet and fitness, and weaned off many of my medications. Though my cancer continues to spread, I remain steadfast in my belief that my life is still mine to live.

I’ve come to realize that strength isn’t just about physical endurance—it’s about resilience, the courage to face the unknown and the determination to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles. It’s about finding hope in the smallest moments and truly connecting with the people who matter most. My battle with cancer has revealed the true meaning of courage—not just in fighting the disease, but in embracing vulnerability, leaning on others and cherishing the simple joys of life.

-Elea