Cancer. Just two syllables, but they can shatter your world in an instant.

I felt nothing unusual—no lumps, no hardness. My yearly mammogram seemed routine until I was called back for a follow-up ultrasound and biopsy. Then, in September 2023, I heard the words that no one ever wants to hear: “You have triple-negative breast cancer.” 

Those words tore through my life like a hurricane.

The questions came fast and relentless: Can I keep working? Can I still go skiing? (We just bought those Epic passes!) Will I lose my hair? How much of it? Will I be sick? Will I live?

The answers were harsh: Yes, you can work. Yes, you can ski. Yes, you will lose your hair—all of it. Yes, you will feel tired and sick. And yes, you will live. The secret to survival? Surround yourself with people who believe in your strength, even when you doubt it yourself.

These incredible souls became my tribe, my Williams’ Warriors. They were my light in the darkest moments. They held my hand through the pain, laughed with me on the good days, and never let me feel alone. With their love and support, I found the courage to shave my head and keep teaching through the fall semester. By spring, I knew I had to focus entirely on healing and fighting back with everything I had.

I’ve completed two grueling rounds of chemotherapy, endured a full left mastectomy, and am now one-sixth of the way through radiation. 

My goals? 

First, to be cancer-free.

Second, to enjoy having 30-year-old boobs for the rest of my life (thanks to reconstructive surgery!). 

And third, to raise money to end this battle for everyone. 

Too many suffer without the incredible support I’ve been blessed with.

Now, I’m reaching out to you, sharing my story because I need your help. I’m raising funds for cancer research through The Prouty, and every single donation, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to a cure. I’ll be participating in the Wooded 5K to honor the tribe that has carried me through this journey. Though I can’t yet wear a survivor tag—I’ll be two weeks shy of that milestone—I’m walking to fight for every warrior still in the battle.

Please consider making a donation to support cancer research. Every dollar matters. Your generosity will fuel research that brings hope and healing to countless individuals facing this relentless disease.

Imagine a world where no one has to hear those life-shattering two syllables. Your contribution, no matter how small, can help make that world a reality. Let’s fight this battle together and bring light to those who need it most.

Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for your kindness and support. Let’s do this—for Williams’ Warriors and for every warrior out there.

With profound gratitude and hope,