Ten years ago, on May 9, 2014, I was diagnosed with breast cancer after what was explained as a routine mammogram. In complete disbelief, I instantly broke down in tears. The words "you have cancer" from my doctor shook me to my core, my life now seemed dim, I felt like time had stopped, and an immense weight of uncertainty settled on my shoulders. The months ahead would be filled with battles I didn't yet know or understand how to fight. In the midst of my uncertainties, I was beyond blessed to be surrounded and supported by my parents, family, friends and colleagues who became a part of my chosen family. They saw the strength in me, when I couldn't. Their support and unwavering belief in me reassured that I could conquer this illness, no matter how daunting it appeared.
My parents were my rock, steadfast in their love and support. They were there through every tear, every fear, and every setback or small victory, reminding me of my resilience when I couldn't see it myself. My family and friends formed a circle of care that never wavered. They were there to share in my struggles, successes, by driving me to appointments, sitting with me during chemo treatments, or provide a listening ear when I needed to talk. They lifted me up and refused to let me face this battle alone. They believed i was stronger than cancer and I will be forever grateful. During my treatments and surgeries, when the future felt most uncertain, it was my circle 'Ali's Allies' who guided me to shift my perspective. They reminded me of my resilience, courage and capacity to stay positive and keep trekking forward.
Although I was in pain, lethargic and weak, running became my escape - a refuge that most people could not understand because they believed I should be resting and building up my strength for my next chemo or radiation treatment. Despite the physical challenges, it was the one place I felt like myself, where I could reclaim a sense of control in the midst of chaos. From the day I was diagnosed with breast cancer until reaching survivorship and now remission, each day was marked by difficult decisions, surgeries, medicines and consequences that I had to accept, no matter how deeply they conflicted with my emotions. This journey stirred up uncontrollable anxiety and distress, but through it all, running remained my sanctuary, the one thing that remained constant and brought me joy and peace when nothing else could. With each finish line I crossed, a renewed sense of strength and determination surged within me. Every race, every run, became a reminder that I could overcome the obstacles and conquer breast cancer. It was a symbol of my fight, my resilience, and my refusal to give up.
Since my diagnosis, this disease has continued to affect the people I love, men and women alike. The battle against breast cancer isn't one that I faced alone, nor does it stop with me. So, each time a friend or family member reaches out to me to share their disbelief and fears about their diagnosis, I am there to offer guidance, support and knowledge I've gained through my own journey. It is humbling to be a source of comfort and inspiration as my circle of friends and family were for me. This is why I continue to believe so strongly in raising awareness for breast cancer and participating in breast cancer events like this one, to stand up for those still in the fight, and to remember those we've lost. Each event, each conversation and each fundraising effort brings us closer to a future with a cure. I ask for your support, not just for me, but for the countless men and women who wake up every day to fight this disease. By donating any amount, no matter how small, you help fund research that brings us closer to a cure. Please join my fundraising team in support of The DONNA Foundation.
