When I first heard the words "it's breast cancer,"  my world fell off its axis. Like so many others, I assumed breast cancer was just one disease with one treatment path. But what I quickly learned, something I wish more people knew, is that breast cancer isn’t just one thing.  There are many different types and subtypes , each with unique characteristics, behaviors, and treatment approaches. When my doctor told me my specific diagnosis was triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC),  I didn’t have a clue what that meant for me. All I knew was that I had cancer, and I needed to trust my medical team to guide me through the best possible treatment plan. TNBC sounded intimidating, and as I began to learn more, I realized just how different it was from other forms of breast cancer. If you or a loved one has just been diagnosed with TNBC, I want you to know: you’re not alone.  It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, confused, and scared. I was there too. But knowledge is power, and understanding your diagnosis can help you navigate this journey with more confidence. Here are five key things to know about TNBC: 1. TNBC Is Different from Other Types of Breast Cancer Most breast cancers are categorized based on the presence of three key receptors: ✅ Estrogen receptors (ER) ✅ Progesterone receptors (PR) ✅ HER2 protein These receptors fuel many breast cancers, and targeted therapies (like hormone-blocking medications or HER2-specific drugs) exist to slow their growth. However, TNBC does not express any of these receptors - hence the name triple-negative . Because of this, TNBC does not respond to hormone therapies like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors  that work for ER/PR-positive breast cancers. It also doesn’t respond to HER2-targeted treatments like Herceptin. Instead, TNBC is typically treated with chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and, in some cases, newer treatments like immunotherapy. This makes TNBC more challenging to treat in some ways, but it also means researchers are actively exploring new, more effective treatment options. *Bonus: The Many Types of Breast Cancer There are many different types and subtypes of breast cancer, and each is treated differently depending on how it behaves and grows. Some of the most common types include: Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (ER+/PR+)  – Fueled by estrogen and/or progesterone, often treated with hormone therapy. HER2-positive breast cancer  – Characterized by an overexpression of the HER2 protein, which can be targeted with specific drugs. Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)  – A rare but aggressive form of breast cancer that causes redness and swelling in the breast. Lobular vs. Ductal Breast Cancer  – These classifications describe where the cancer originates within the breast tissue. Metastatic Breast Cancer (Stage IV)  – Cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body. Each type has its own treatment approach, and no two breast cancer journeys are the same. If you want to dive deeper into the many variations of breast cancer, check out this helpful guide from the National Breast Cancer Foundation : Types of Breast Cancer . Understanding the specifics of your diagnosis  can help you feel more informed and empowered as you navigate treatment options. 2. Triple Negative Breast Cancer Can Be More Aggressive - But Not Always TNBC tends to grow and spread faster than other types of breast cancer, with a higher likelihood of recurrence  within the first 3 to 5 years after treatment. It is often diagnosed at a later stage and can be more likely to metastasize (spread to other parts of the body). However, not all TNBC cases behave the same way. Some are more aggressive, while others respond very well to chemotherapy and have excellent long-term outcomes. Because TNBC grows quickly, early detection and prompt treatment are crucial . If you’ve recently been diagnosed, working closely with an oncologist who specializes in TNBC can help you navigate the best course of treatment. 3. It Affects Certain Groups More Frequently While TNBC can affect anyone, it is more common in certain groups , including: Younger women  (under 40) African-American women Women with BRCA1 genetic mutations Latina women Women with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry If you fall into one of these groups, being proactive with regular breast exams and screenings  can help with earlier detection. Those with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer  may want to discuss genetic testing with their doctor to determine if they have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, which could impact both treatment and preventive care decisions. Also, it's unfortunately not standard practice yet, but if you get a mammogram and learn you have "dense breast tissue" you should ask for a follow-up ultrasound or additional image screening. We're learning through a number of studies that dense breast tissue shows up as white areas on a mammogram, similar to how tumors appear, making it hard to identify small or early stage cancers within the dense tissue. 4. Treatment for TNBC Is Evolving Since TNBC doesn’t respond to hormone-based therapies, chemotherapy remains the main treatment option . However, significant advances have been made in recent years, including: Immunotherapy:  Drugs like Keytruda (pembrolizumab) help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Targeted therapies:  Some newer drugs, such as Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan), are designed specifically for TNBC. PARP inhibitors:  For patients with BRCA mutations, drugs like Olaparib (Lynparza) and Talazoparib (Talzenna) target cancer cells more precisely. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with TNBC, ask your oncologist about clinical trials  and emerging treatment options. TNBC research is moving forward rapidly , and new treatments are giving patients more hope than ever before. 5. Support & Advocacy Are Key A TNBC diagnosis can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. There are support groups, advocacy organizations, and online communities  dedicated to helping women navigate this journey. Some helpful resources include: TNBC Foundation  – Offers information, clinical trial resources, and support networks. Breastcancer.org TNBC Forum  – A place to connect with others facing TNBC. Living Beyond Breast Cancer  – Provides education, support, and community connections. FORCE  – Focuses on hereditary cancer, including BRCA-related TNBC. In addition to seeking medical care, finding a strong support system , whether through family, friends, or fellow survivors, can make a world of difference. There Is Hope A TNBC diagnosis can be frightening, but you are not powerless . Every year, new breakthroughs in research bring us closer to more effective treatments and better outcomes. 💖 Stay informed.  Knowledge is power. The more you understand about TNBC, the more confident you can feel in your treatment decisions. 💖 Advocate for yourself.  You deserve the best care possible—don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek a second opinion. 💖 Lean on your support system.  Whether it’s family, friends, or an online community, you don’t have to go through this alone. If you or a loved one is facing TNBC, I see you. I’m sending you strength, resilience, and unwavering support. Go kick cancer's ASS!

Cancer treatment is a journey - one that is often filled with emotional and physical challenges. Whether you’ve been through it yourself, or you’re supporting someone who is, understand that all forms of therapy treatment (chemo, radiation, surgery) are exhausting, unpredictable, and usually very isolating. That’s why a chemo care package can be such a powerful gift. It’s more than just a box of items, it’s a tangible way to say, I see you, I care, and I’m here for you. When I was going through treatment, I remember the little things making the biggest impact; soft blankets, cozy socks, handwritten notes, or things to support not only me but also my family as we went through this season together. Thoughtful gestures truly lifted my spirits and reminded me that I had support and there was a lot of life to be lived with friends and family on the other side of treatment. So, if someone close to you is undergoing chemo and you’re wondering how to support them, a personalized care package is a great place to start. Here are some thoughtful items to consider: 1. Soft and cozy headwear. Hair loss is one of the most common and visible side effects of chemo, and while it doesn’t define the journey, it’s still an adjustment. A soft, breathable hat or head wrap can provide warmth, comfort, and confidence. I had a few baseball caps that I would wear most often, they felt a bit like my armor while also protecting my face from the sun when I went out (which is super important always, but especially during cancer treatment). Below are a few links to some of the options that I bought for myself, but you can find things like this really anywhere. Pro Tip:  Some people love vibrant patterns, while others prefer neutral tones that match everything. If you’re unsure of their preference, then consider including an Amazon or Target gift card  so they can pick something out that they'll love. Below are the 3 items I wore the most often and links to Amazon where you can find them. Slouchy bamboo headcover Distressed Baseball Cap Soft winter beanie 2. Nourishing lip balm and skincare to combat the dryness. One of chemo’s less-talked-about side effects is how dry everything gets  - skin, lips, and even nails. Many traditional lotions and lip balms contain fragrances or chemicals that are dangerous and can be irritating to what is now highly sensitive skin, so opt for gentle, fragrance-free options. Lip balm  with coconut oil, shea butter or beeswax helps prevent chapped lips. All the products from this brand ATTITUDE are amazing, EWG Verified, and safe for use. Hand cream  or body lotion can soothe itchy, flaky skin. If radiation treatment is part of your overall treatment plan, then I would highly recommend investing in this lotion from Miaderm  – it was my first line of defense and I used it religiously when going through radiation. Cuticle oil  or nail-strengthening cream helps protect fragile nails. Body Soap   that is moisturizing and made with safe ingredients. My favorite is Dr. Bronner’s in the scent Eucalyptus.   Pro Tip:  Look for products with ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or vitamin E—these are especially hydrating and gentle. 3. Comfort essentials because chemo rooms are cold. If you’ve ever spent hours in a chemo infusion chair, you know how chilly those rooms can get. Soft, cozy items bring a sense of warmth and security. A compact fleece blanket  or weighted lap blanket  offers comfort during long treatment sessions. Warm, non-slip socks  keep toes toasty without worrying about slipping on hospital floors. I also love these basic knit socks  and wear them all the time to this day, they’re great for wearing over leggings with boots in the colder months. A nice large tote bag  is very useful when it comes to carrying your things back and forth between treatment sessions. Personal Recommendation:  One of my favorite gifts I received was from a dear friend who bought me one of these Hugs blankets from Minky Coture®   and it is and will always be my absolute favorite blanket. It feels exactly as the name describes, like a warm, soft, fuzzy hug just when you need one most. I did not take it with me to chemo treatments, but it was always waiting to welcome me back to my couch when I returned home to rest. 4. Snacks for nausea relief. Chemotherapy can make food taste off  (hello, metal mouth) and can also bring waves of nausea. Keeping mild, easy-to-eat snacks on hand is a lifesaver. Ginger lozenges  or ginger tea  help calm nausea naturally. Crackers or plain granola bars  are bland enough to be easy on the stomach. Peppermints or lemon drops  can help combat weird chemo aftertastes. Pro Tip:  If you’re unsure what snacks they can tolerate, include a variety and let them pick what works for them. But please note - I would come to find out as I got deeper into my chemo treatments and my nausea during treatments got worse, I would start associating the nauseous feeling with the snack I was eating at the time and I can no longer enjoy that snack like I used to (so don’t be offended if they eventually beg you to never buy them that snack again). 5. Entertainment and distractions to help pass the time. Chemo days can be long . Sometimes you just want to close your eyes and rest, but other times, distractions are welcome. A little entertainment can help pass the hours and provide an escape. A good book  (light-hearted fiction or inspiring memoirs are great choices). Lysa TerKeurst's Seeing Beautiful Again was a gift from a friend that got me through some very dark times. Puzzle books  like Sudoku or crosswords to keep the mind engaged. A journal to jot down thoughts, emotions, or even treatment notes. Adult coloring books & colored pencils  for a relaxing creative outlet. An extra-long phone charging cable   because they will be on their phone a lot and it will drain the battery quickly.   Personal Recommendation:  When I was going through chemo, a friend made me a beautiful custom Spotify playlist and I would listen to it on repeat as I dozed in my chair. If your loved one enjoys listening rather than reading or coloring, perhaps a subscription to Audible, a list of uplifting podcast recommendations, or a custom-curated Spotify playlist would be a welcome gift of support and encouragement. 6. Hydration is key. Chemo can cause dehydration, and staying hydrated is so important. One of the chemotherapies I received was affectionally referred to as “the red devil” because of its bright red color and it would turn the color of my urine a bright red-orange as well. And so, my oncology nurses explained to me that my goal for each treatment should be to drink enough water and go to the bathroom often enough that by the time I left the treatment center my urine would be back to a normal color. And so that’s what I did, I would sit in that chair, and I would drink copious amounts of water. Some ways you can help with this would be to buy: A cute (LARGE) water cup/bottle  to keep fluids handy. Electrolyte drink mixes  (look for sugar-free or low-sugar options). Herbal teas  that are gentle on the stomach and soothing to sip. Pro Tip:  Remember - avoid heavily caffeinated drinks, as they can be dehydrating. 7. Helping their family helps them the most. Some of the most helpful things during my treatment were actually massive blessings to not only me but my entire family. We received several food delivery gift cards and homemade meals from friends who wanted to make sure I wasn’t worried about making meals and feeding myself and my family when I was dealing with the side effects from treatment. Door Dash or Uber Eats gift cards  make meals for the family a snap. Set up a Meal Train   and invite friends and family to sign-up for some days to bring over food. Home cleaning services  were extremely appreciated too. I was told by another survivor early on to conserve my energy for “the things that only I could do.” Meaning, anyone can clean the house or make meals, but only I can read my baby a bedtime story or comfort my husband or spend time with my friends – those are the places that I personally was needed  most. And so instead of worrying about how to keep the house clean during the little time where I felt good and strong, my sister found us a local housekeeper that would come every few weeks and help keep our house in order. Personal Insights:  It can be different for everyone, but days 3, 4, and 5 after chemo treatment were usually the most difficult for me, when I was tired and in bed the most. So having options for my husband to just grab or pick up on his way home to feed himself and our daughter were a huge help. 8. A handwritten note of encouragement can mean the most. Sometimes, the best thing you can include in a chemo care package is a simple, heartfelt letter. Words of love, support, and encouragement go a long way. Let them know you’re thinking of them, that they are strong, and that they’re not alone. I had a beautiful friend who wrote an entire box full of cards and on each envelope, she would write a little description like - “For when you’re feeling scared” / “For when you need a laugh” / and so on… and I would comb through those each week and pick out a letter to read. It filled my cup over and over and over again. And I still have those notes and will keep and treasure them forever. It doesn’t have to be a present. Just BE present . A chemo care package doesn’t have to be extravagant. It’s truly the thought that counts. Whether you put together a full box or just pick one or two meaningful items, your loved one will feel  the love behind it. But most importantly, more important than any gift or care package could be – just be present . Show up. Just act . Don’t ASK how you can help, just do. Call them. Write them. Drop food by. Show up and spend time with them if they feel up for it. Take their kids for a play date if they’re needing to rest. It’s a very tangible way to show you care for them. It’s one thing to say, “You’re not alone in this.” It’s another thing entirely to show  them day in and day out that they are not alone in this - so long as you are alive and kicking, you are with them in this fight. Having been on the receiving end of all of this, I can tell you firsthand – it all matters . You can bring light to some of the darkest days and remind someone that they’re surrounded by people who care. The smallest act of kindness makes a world of difference. *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A few weeks ago my hubs and I headed out to Maine to celebrate our anniversary and all that we have overcome this last 2ish years. I think the pinnacle experience was standing together on top of a mountain peak in Acadia National Park. But as with most of life’s greatest joys, that view was hard won. The Bubbles at Acadia National Park. We only had 1 full day to explore the park so I had spent time reading up on hikes and trails and we settled on the hiking path that runs around Jordan Pond and up into The Bubbles (two mounds that rose out of the earth and together looked exactly like a pair of breasts - the irony!). It all sounded fairly simple, and as we set out that morning it seemed like it would be a nice leisurely trek. But halfway into the hike around the pond my foot landed in just the wrong way on a rock hidden under some leaves and I fell, hard. Ankle sprained, knee banged up and hand a bit sore from catching my fall; I sat and cursed in frustration. This was exactly what we did not need today! But I gathered myself, weighed the options and decided to keep moving. That’s life, right? Onward and upward. As I hobbled along, we eventually arrived at the base of the mountain trail and I told my husband I thought I’d be alright - we had come this far so let’s keep going. This was when I was thinking the ascent would be a simple set of “stairs carved into the mountainside” because that’s what had been written in the trail guide. It quickly became clear that there were no “stairs” (maybe we had entered at a different spot?) and this was going to be a slow and tedious crawl up the side of a mountain covered in boulders - big, small, unsecured, treacherous… I was terrified. I made it about halfway up before becoming paralyzed in my fear and feeling the overwhelming sense of defeat. I started crying and saying over and over, “I can’t do this. There’s no way. I just can’t! Even if I get up, how the heck will I make it down?!” I was frustrated, angry. Why wouldn’t my body do the things I wanted it to do. Why wasn’t I strong enough, healthy enough. Why did I think that I could even attempt this!? I’m not an "outdoorsy" person am I? I just play at one. My husband was so kind and encouraging, he kept telling me we can head back, that it was ok and I had already done so much, there was no shame in turning back. I’m truly not sure what it was in the end; my fear of failing or thoughts of letting my husband down, an inner strength I didn’t know I had, probably my stubborn pride - who knows, but we kept going. At each stage in the climb we'd check in with each other, "Well we made it past that, what's ahead can't be much worse right? Let's keep going. Just a few more steps and it will be worth it." We couldn't see what we were working toward, I had seen a picture in the guide book of what could be expected, the vista to look for, but along the way we kept getting a taste of the final view. We would step into a clearing and think, wow this is beautiful, we could turn back now and be happy. But we kept going because we knew that there was an even greater view hopefully just a few more feet away. We eventually made it to the top and took a deep breath. It was most definitely worth the trouble, worth the climb. It was not lost on me, as I stood there soaking in every minute of our win, the parallels to be drawn from our last 2 years fighting through breast cancer and our experience on that mountain. I was overwhelmed with gratitude for my body, my mind, my husband, my God - without them I know I’d have perished before even starting this fight. When I felt weak or tired, my mind let me rest and my body did the fighting. When I was focused on my own needs, my husband never wavered - gave everything for me and kept our house running smoothly every damn day. When I fall victim to fear and find myself overcome by the darkness of reality, my God reminds me of His truths and promises, His peace calms me and renews my hope each day. He provides rest along the way, beautiful views to step into and take a break; chances to reflect and appreciate the journey that we are on, all the while keeping our heart set on that final vista and propelling us forward. We made the slow and steady retreat back down the boulder-covered mountainside, and when we eventually returned to our house to rest for the afternoon I sat on the couch, my foot elevated on my husband's lap and I just smiled to myself. Because I knew in that moment, with him by my side, I could do anything, everything - and for him, I would. Including beating cancer and sticking around to live a long life by his side. We all have our own mountains to climb, our own battles to fight. They are all valid, they are each so personal and so important in shaping us into the people we are meant to be in this life. Steady your hearts and press on into the unknown. For it is in the fear that we are forged and the struggles that we find our truest selves. Lean into growth; personal, spiritual or otherwise. Take heart and have faith. I left a piece of my heart on top of that mountain and gained so much more in turn.

LifeAfterTheLump.com shares Cassie's journey through triple negative breast cancer, offering stories of faith, resilience, and hope. Find inspiration and strength in her testimony of healing and gratitude. Life After the Lump MY JOURNEY THROUGH BREAST CANCER & BEYOND 7 min read Cancer Support Tips for Building a Chemo Care Package A chemo care package is a simple yet powerful way to show love. Comfort, hydration, and heartfelt notes can make all the difference. 5 min read Mental Health Coping with Life After Chemo: A Guide for New Survivors A cancer survivor's guide on coping after chemo, with tips for managing side effects, setting goals, and embracing a new normal. 4 min read Gratitude Facing A Mountain Shaped Like Boobs But as with most of life’s greatest joys, that view was hard won. 4 min read Trauma & Grieving 'Tis The Spooky Season Again Man, I wish my biggest fear were the things that go bump in the night. But I am struggling. I don't think I expected to still be... 3 min read Surgery The Search For A Surgeon October 4, 2021 Make a plan, and then be ready to change everything. Everyone told me this over and over again about childbirth - and... 2 min read Gratitude Beyond Grateful September 17, 2021 This is a hard season, I don’t think anyone would disagree with me on that. I have my bad days, those hard moments... View More

Find essential resources for breast cancer patients and survivors, including support groups, financial aid, wellness tips, and wig options for hair loss. 1/8 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. 15% Approx. only 15% of women diagnosed have a family history of breast cancer. 99% When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. 9% About 9% of all new breast cancer cases in the U.S. are diagnosed in women younger than 45 years old. *2024 Data from the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Find Support: National Breast Cancer Research Foundation No matter where you are in your journey, National Breast Cancer Research Foundation can help. Learn More: Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation The TNBC Foundation is a credible source for triple negative breast cancer information, a catalyst for science and patient advocacy and a caring community with meaningful services for patients and their families. Donate Today: Breast Cancer Research Foundation Be the End of Breast Cancer! When you give to BCRF, you're funding critical hours in the lab. More time for research means more progress towards ending breast cancer—and longer, healthier lives for the ones we love. Wig Out! Cancer can take a toll on every part of your identity, including your hair. But you’re not alone. There are many resources available to support and empower you through this journey. EverYou Find the best quality wigs, headwear and mastectomy products to help you keep looking and feeling like yourself. Wig/Headcovers How To Guides You may have thought about buying a wig, but don’t know where to begin. Headcovers resources provide insightful details on color, style, construction, buying tips and care. Verma Foundation The Verma Foundation is proud to provide human hair cap wigs to cancer patients in financial need - completely free of cost. Wigs & Wishes Receiving a wig from Wigs &Wishes or any participating salon is completely free! They only ask for a copy of a diagnosis letter for their records. Headcovers Unlimited Serving cancer patients for 30 years. Shop with confidence, knowing that products have been developed with your specific needs in mind. Hair We Share Provide customized, human hair wigs free of charge to anyone whose financial means doesn’t allow them to purchase one.

LifeAfterTheLump.com shares Cassie's journey through triple negative breast cancer, offering stories of faith, resilience, and hope. Find inspiration and strength in her testimony of healing and gratitude. Hi, I'm Cassie At 31 years old, I was diagnosed with triple negative invasive high-grade ductal carcinoma (read: breast cancer). I am a momma, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a niece, a cousin, a friend, a co-worker and most importantly, a child of God. I am so much more than my diagnosis, but I know that because of this fight I am uniquely positioned to share testimony during this battle - the way made, the miracles witnessed, the redemption given, the hope restored and the healing - so much healing. I was forced to be a warrior in a battle I never wanted. But my God has been with me every step of the way. I have never been good with journaling, but this has been the best way to document and share my experience with my loved ones who are praying for and fighting alongside my family and I. I know this war will last a lifetime and I will carry the scars with me always. But the events documented in this blog, these are the battles, and they are won! I hate how it came, but I'm thankful to live life with this new perspective and appreciation for every moment. Every person. Every new day. I pray that in reading about my fight, my husband's fight, our families' fight - will give you something in return. Be it restored faith, gratefulness for your own circumstances, hope that all things can be redeemed - whatever it may be, if one soul can be touched by this journey then I know it's worth it. For God's glory.