How many kids do you each have and what are their ages?
I have 1 daughter, Isabelle, who just turned 3!
What are your favorite family activities in the area?
We love spending time in Harbor Point- using the multiple playgrounds, seeing the dogs play at the dog park, and especially getting a turn on the big swings on the boardwalk. We also really love going to Silverman’s Farm and go for ALL the pickings- blueberries, raspberries, peaches, apples!
What do you like about living in Stamford?
I love how much there is to do in Stamford- there is never a dull moment! There is always a festival or event going on, comedy shows, concerts, shopping, beach days, and good food!
Tell us about your career, volunteer and interests.
I have been an elementary teacher for 13 years and this year recently transitioned to teaching ESL- English as a Second Language at Toquam Magnet School.
This year I started to volunteer to help The Bennett Cancer Center which was an amazing part of my recovery journey. The fact that we have this amazing resource right in Stamford was so helpful especially since I had to be there everyday for weeks. Their integrative medicine program is such an important part of tackling the toll cancer takes on ones’ mental health. This included reiki, massage therapy, reflexology, and more which helped beyond measure. I wanted to do something to raise money for these programs, and to raise awareness for breast health!
How are you raising awareness this October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
This month I am hosting a Sip & Spin at The Cycle Bar in Stamford on October 20 at 6:30 p.m. We will cycle and then sip some rosé for a happy hour afterwards! Wearing pink is encouraged! The Cycle Bar had just opened when I was diagnosed and there was something empowering about getting on that bike that helped me find the mental clarity and positivity I needed to push through and fight the battle. This is why I chose to use The Cycle Bar to help raise awareness and funds this month!
Tell us about your journey with breast cancer.
Just about a year ago now (on my husband’s birthday!) the call came that confirmed that I had breast cancer. Stage 1. Hormone Positive. I was mentally prepared for the diagnosis after feeling a lump during a monthly breast exam and an ultrasound showing something suspicious.
The doctor described it to me in the same way I describe content to my Kindergarten students– slowly, with visuals and gestures, and wait time for me to process everything and she even managed to keep me calm and hopeful that this was all going to be solved. I felt good after that meeting- this was something I could tackle and come out of on the other side. However, after describing some back pain and seeing shadows on a bone scan, my doctor wanted me to have a full body PET Scan.
The fear that took over with this news was worse than originally finding out about the cancer. The fear of it spreading really spiraled me into the deepest, darkest places that it has or could ever go. My surgery was postponed and the waiting seemed endless. I couldn’t eat, couldn’t sleep, could barely take care of my daughter. I knew I had to change my attitude. I started writing down stories of what I envisioned for my life and affirmations for my health. I would repeat them everyday and paint a picture in my mind of my visualization. A few, long days later I learned that my PET scan only showed inflammation in my back. No other signs of cancer.
My lumpectomy completely removed my tumor with clear margins. My oncotype scores which predict if I would benefit from chemotherapy were so low that I did not need it. I went through four quick weeks of radiation symptom free and got to have complimentary massage therapy once a week during it (silver lining- thanks to the Bennett Cancer Center). I am completing my treatment of anti-estrogen therapy for the next five years for preventative measures. Today I am cancer free.
How are you doing today?
While I am cancer free and healthy today, there are some things that never really go away. The fear of it coming back. A more carefree lifestyle gives way to hyperfocus on what I eat and drink each day, what chemicals are in my products, etc. But it has given me things too…the ability to not sweat the small stuff (more of the time!) and the ability to go through life with a lens of gratitude every single day.
I continue my practices of gratitude and visualization. Everyday I repeat my affirmations for my health and well-being and I write down or imagine what I wish for my future– to be healthy and happy and to watch my family grow and spread love. I am grateful everyday for the chance to live and love.
What message do you want to send to other women?
Please please do a monthly breast exam and schedule your mammogram! When I originally went to get checked out after feeling a lump, the doctor said he did not feel anything! Of course, he ordered an ultrasound anyway, which confirmed what I had felt. Remember only you know your body best- trust yourself and listen to your gut when something doesn’t feel right!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
Oh- there are are so many! I think one piece of advice that has stayed with me is the message that your child/children will always, more or less, “figure it out” at their own time and pace. In other words, try to stop feeling the pressure to have our children sleep through the night, potty train, write their name, etc. They will reach these milestones at their own pace and taking the pressure off helps you enjoy your time together that much more.