A diagnosis of Metastatic IBC is overwhelming with
Shock, Fear & Despair.
So often the moments that change our lives come out of nowhere.
For me that day was 08.08.14. At age 36, I received the devastating news that I had Stage IV Metastatic Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC). IBC is a rare & aggressive form of breast cancer that isn't detectable until Stage III or IV & comes with a poor prognosis.
I was overwhelmed.
My thoughts were paralyzed with painful questions like:
How much time do I have?
How will I cope with side effects?
What will my quality of life be like?
How will my family get through this?
How will I ever get through this?
An incredible oncology team helped me navigate treatment options.
I initially fought IBC with intensive weekly chemotherapy followed by treatment every 21 days. My oncology team provided continued care as IBC proved its aggressiveness over the years with metastases in the liver, brain & spine, as well as local recurrences.
Each treatment brought about complex side effects as well as other mental, physical & spiritual challenges that threatened my quality of life.
I couldn't endure lifelong treatment without learning to thrive.
Fortunately, programs exist that provide guidance & support to patients that can dramatically increase the quality of life for someone who will be in cancer treatment indefinitely. However, many of these wellness therapies are not covered by insurance, which can add a significant financial burden during an already overwhelming time.
When I started researching the benefits of integrative oncology, my hospital serendipitously received a grant that gifted trial appointments with its programs.
These initial appointments empowered me and inspired me to hope.
Connecting with functional nutritionists, integrative doctors, cancer therapists, and other wellness professionals put me on a new path of healing and empowerment. These opportunities created habits that have continued to increase my physical, emotional, and mental health to this day.
I have witnessed firsthand a need for these programs to become more accessible to others. MBC patients are facing the most challenging journey of their lives & should be able to seek their best quality of life. When I reached a milestone not granted to many with metastatic IBC, thriving 5 years after diagnosis, I felt a strong calling to give back to the Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) community.
ROOTS & WINGS Charitable Foundation
ROOTS & WINGS was created to provide complimentary integrative wellness programs that increase emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being during continuous oncology treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer.
08.08.24 Update - Ten Years!
On 08.08.24, I reached a profound milestone—ten years of living with metastatic inflammatory breast cancer (IBC).
It has been anything but easy, but I’m still here today, thanks to an extraordinary team of physicians, the support of integrative care, and the unwavering strength of community—especially during the darkest moments when hope felt out of reach.
Becoming an advocate for MBC has given my cancer experience a more profound meaning. One of my greatest honors has been contributing to the growth of ROOTS & WINGS. Celebrating this milestone at the 2024 Move IV MBC event was a humbling and joyous moment, reminding me of the power of connection, community, and purpose.
I am beyond proud of what the ROOTS & WINGS team has accomplished and deeply grateful for the individuals who support us and believe in this mission; thank you!
Please Consider a Donation Today
Your donation to ROOTS & WINGS allows us to assist those who are facing the hardest journey of their lives.
Together we have the opportunity to improve the quality of life for MBC patients without additional financial burden.
Even the smallest amount will make a difference in helping MBC patients to become thrivers.
We are forever grateful for your support!