October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time that we stand up to breast cancer, support research, and spread encouragement. Meet five women we love who are standing up to breast cancer in their own powerful ways, from providing comfort to women recovering from breast cancer surgery to opening a clinic that provides screening and treatment for breast cancer.

 As a philanthropy strategist and advisor, two time cancer survivor, mom, wife, entrepreneur, and more, Fayruz is an outstanding example of resilience under the most challenging circumstances.

How do you stand up to breast cancer?

I never give up! A strong faith and network of family and friends. And serving as an advocate for others who are under and uninsured to have access to diagnostic care and beyond.

Words of encouragement for someone facing cancer?

Let go and know that you are strong and capable to fight the fight. And there are so many who will cheer you on to get through it. Never give up and don't lose hope.

An 18 year breast cancer survivor, Carolyn started The IIIB’s Foundation (a recipient of our Buy One, Gift One campaign!) to support recovery for women after breast cancer surgery.

How do you stand up TO breast cancer?

I founded a breast cancer charity where we give our Bosom Buddy Baskets filled with comfort and recovery items to women when they wake up from mastectomy surgery in the hospital.

Why do you stand up to breast cancer?

I stand up for cancer because when I went through my breast cancer journey, there were a lot of organizations and people raising money to help find a cure but there was no one there to comfort the women during their difficult time of recovery. I wanted to create a community of women who would encourage and support one another.

Shortly after Stacy turned 40, she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. Now, after finishing successful treatment in February, she’s determined to help give every person diagnosed an equal shot at beating breast cancer.

How do you stand up to breast cancer?

I battled it with everything I had after I was diagnosed. Today, I apply my time, talent and treasure to causes like The Big Pink Bus that support other women who are not as lucky as I am to have good health insurance and a great support network.

Words of encouragement for someone facing cancer?

We're learning more about breast cancer every day, and that means outcomes are always improving. Whether you're battling yourself, or supporting someone who is, WE CAN DO THIS!

As a 12 year breast cancer survivor, in 2014 Susan was inspired to start the Seton Breast Care Center with her friend Marcia Levy. 

Why do you stand up to breast cancer? 

My desire is to help patients navigate the daunting world of mammograms, biopsies, and treatment.  

Words of encouragement for someone facing cancer?

 Fight it with all your might, and help others who are in the same "boat."  When you help others, you end up helping yourself! 

When Ali had her first mammogram, it was for a Facebook LIVE at work to remind women to schedule their own. She didn’t expect to actually be diagnosed with breast cancer that day, and now actively advocates for all women to prioritize mammograms.

Why do you stand up to breast cancer?

My story of survival touched many people around the world because I was diagnosed with breast cancer during my very first mammogram at 40 years old.

Words of encouragement for someone facing cancer?

You can do this! A breast cancer diagnosis is crushing. It's confusing. It's sad. But, you can make hard decisions and show up for treatment, and you can beat this.

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