I’m Facing Breast Cancer at 28

Hey, YOU!

Thank you so much for coming to my page. It means at some point we probably shared a laugh, a dessert, an adventure or maybe you know someone I know and want to support them by supporting me. I can't say it enough...THANK YOU. This page was created in response to the outpouring of love and support since my diagnosis - I appreciate it so very much.

On September 15, 2020 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Following additional exams and appointments, it was determined that I would be facing Stage 2 - Grade 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer. It has been a crazy, fast-paced ride; and on October 19th I will be starting chemotherapy. My treatment plan will start with chemo for 16 weeks followed by surgery. Hopefully, my margins will be clear, and that will be it for this fight.

The lump wasn't found during a routine self-exam or a scheduled breast exam appointment (though I recommend both regularly). Simply put, it was meant to be found when it was.

On August 26th, I went for a physical exam to finalize some paperwork so my husband and I could move overseas on military orders. Upon arrival, I met my nurse-- who I would later come to know as the woman who saved my life. This woman had the most amazing energy all morning. She was the kind of person who loves what she does, and you know that it's true because you can feel it. After answering questions and chatting a bit, I told her just how much she was making my morning with her genuine kindness.

When the doctor arrived, we discussed doing an OBGYN exam, but she didn't think a breast exam was necessary. After all, I am 28 and just had a breast exam not too long ago. She left the room for a minute to go grab something.

"So you're not doing the breast exam?" asked the nurse.

I paused. "Because you said it, let's do it," I replied.

When the doctor came back in the room, I asked for the breast exam. I will never forget that moment-- with the doctor and nurse in the room with me, my open gown and my mask on. The first breast was clear. In the second breast, my lump was discovered.

I share this story because it so easily depicts how much your energy and kindness can change someone's life-- even for a perfect stranger. This act of kindness inspired me to create "Lorelei's Chemo to Kindness Challenge."

A graphic I created to raise awareness on social media.

HOW IT WORKS:

For each week of treatment (16 total), I ask that you do an act of kindness and share it on this page or on one of my social media pages. You can comment here below, on my Facebook or Instagram @loreleicolbert. You can use the hashtags #1600acts or #TeamLorelei. (For those looking on insta, #teamlorelei currently has a couple Australian dudes in pink speedos...you're welcome).

It can be as simple as calling a friend that you haven't connected with in a while, sending your sibling a Venmo for coffee, pushing a new idea at work, helping out a stranger, or something more your style...get creative, and don't forget to share it!

On days when I feel rough, I will love to look at all the GOOD we're doing around the world. My goal is to encourage 1600 acts of kindness over the 16 weeks of anticipated chemotherapy treatment. Each week of treatment = a new opportunity for you to make a difference Thank you for reading.

As many know, Andrew and I live in NC and all of our family is out of state. Our families are planning visits, but we recognize this is a marathon and not a sprint. We thank you for wanting to help and support us during this time. Stay tuned for more updates, and check out my calendar and wishlist if you'd like to help support in other ways.

Let's do this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

With Gratitude and Love,

Lorelei