My name is Sarah Herndon. I am a 30-year-old breast cancer fighter. At 27-years-old I was diagnosed with late stage inflammatory breast cancer. I underwent 4 months of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and 6 weeks of radiation. Unfortunately, my cancer spread to other parts of my body. I am not yet in remission but I’m stable. I lead a busy and active life with my two little girls and my amazing fiancé Eric. I know that someday I will be cancer-free. For now, I am managing my adversities and enjoying all that life has to offer.
When I found out that I had cancer, my whole world changed forever, it was absolutely devastating. I had a late diagnosis because of an insurance issue. If I had known about how Susan G. Komen helps fund local health clinics my prognosis would have been much better. I could have been treated much more quickly and my story would be much different.
The good news is that through our fundraising efforts, Susan G. Komen Nevada is able to fund local clinics and organizations so that they can help patients pay for services and out-of-pocket expenses. Seventy-five percent of funds raised stay right here in Nevada.
After we found out that my cancer had metastasized, my fiancé and I traveled to Stanford Women’s center on Mother’s Day of 2015. Dr. Melinda Telli, who is a Komen Scholar, put me on a medication that had just been fast-tracked by the FDA. Only a few women in Reno were on this drug, it is truly groundbreaking and I know that these medical advances that we have made in treating breast cancer saved my life. I want you to know that when you donate to Komen Nevada, 25 percent of your donation goes directly to research. In fact, in the past 30 years, there have been few, if any, advances in breast cancer research that have not been touched by Komen funding.”
It’s my mission to make sure that women like me do not fall through the cracks. I want women to know that if they have something wrong, Komen has resources and partners who can help you. There is hope, do not be afraid because there is an entire organization dedicated to reducing late-stage diagnosis, and ultimately finding the cure.
This is my first year with Susan G. Komen Nevada, but it will not be my last. I am so passionate about this organization. This year, the race will be held downtown at the new Reno City Plaza. Please invite your family and friends and support us on this amazing mission!
Register for the October 16 Reno race and join my team, Sarah’s Sluggers or start your own team. You can also make a donation here.
For the race and parking maps, please visit Komen Nevada here.
