Caracozy's Story: How I Went From Patient to Advocate
Caracozy is a Breastcancer.org Community member in Montclair, New Jersey, USA.
I was diagnosed at 29. Having history in my family, I wouldn’t say I was shocked. But I was surprised. When I was diagnosed, I thought I took cancer out of my life. And for the most part I did. I had a double mastectomy, eight rounds of chemo, tamoxifen for 5 years, multiple surgeries over the 17 years, a hysterectomy and oophorectomy 13 years post-diagnosis. Two miracle kids and a lot of love later, cancer has left me but I live with it everyday. I have scars. I now have to explain to my daughter and my son why I look different. My daughter will have to get checked at a young age.
I live to inspire. My friends and family started a walk team Caracozy. We have raised over $500,000. Every October I post #31daysofpink. I’m active in benefits to raise money for breast cancer and for kids with cancer and blood disorders for The Valerie Fund. We have raised over $2.5.
My life changed. I don’t take any days for granted. I live to be healthy. I live to help others. I live for my family. I live for myself.
My advice is cancer doesn’t have to be “hereditary." There is so much more we have to learn. Be your own advocate. I found my lump. If I didn’t check, I could have potentially died.
