PUBLISHED: 30th April 2026
FORCE has been part of my life long before I understood just how deeply it would shape my story. My mom was involved with the organization over 15 years ago, and I grew up attending FORCE events without realizing that one day, I would lean on this same community myself. After my BRCA1 diagnosis, undergoing a double mastectomy at 25, and later navigating fertility preservation with my first egg retrieval at 28, FORCE became more than a resource—it became my silver lining.
Through volunteering as a peer navigator, leading virtual support groups and contributing to social media campaigns, I’ve found purpose in connection and advocacy. I’m especially passionate about helping give a voice to young previvors—many of whom, like me, haven’t always felt like they fully “fit” within the hereditary cancer community. Creating space for those stories, experiences and decisions to be seen and understood is incredibly important to me.
Having my Op-Ed published through FORCE in the Chicago Tribune—a newspaper my dad read every Sunday morning while I was growing up—was a full-circle moment that reminded me just how meaningful this work is. I volunteer with FORCE because no one should have to navigate hereditary cancer risk alone, and I’m honored to be part of a community that ensures they don’t have to.