Heather Mason Owens was just 28 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. As a young woman, she felt there was a need for support for women undergoing treatment at a young age and started her own non-profit. We are proud to know Heather! She Fights Fancy, and this is her story...

On May 9, 2012 at the age of 28 my entire world changed forever. The lump that I had found in my breast was confirmed to be cancer. Estrogen positive invasive ductal carcinoma.  I will NEVER forget the day I was told that I had breast cancer. What I was wearing, where I was standing, what the weather was like. Nothing could prepare me for that phone call. I heard chemotherapy, radiation, double mastectomy, menopause…but all I could think to ask was “will I lose my hair?” I went on to undergo four treatments of Adriamycin/Cytoxin and four treatments of Taxol. In the midst of chemo I found my purpose; creating a non-profit for women under 40 going through chemo called Fighting Fancy. We provide chemo bags full of helpful items to help young women stay strong and fight fancy. The bags are filled with items that are geared towards helping chemo patients get through treatment, feel beautiful, and have hope for the future.  In November, I had a double mastectomy and I am currently scheduled for my replacement surgery on April 29, I can’t wait! Until then I will continue to Fight Fancy!

XOXO,
Heather

For more stories from survivors check out our Survivor Month page here.