My life was forever changed after my second-ever mammogram. No risk factors, no family history, I was blindsided. Triple positive, so the treatment plan was overwhelming and absolutely terrifying. I had absolutely no idea what to expect on the "chemo" days to entail, but I couldn't have lucked into a better care team.

I first met Candie on my first day. I had a personal goal of using peripheral IVs and avoiding a port. I had just gotten back from a tropical vacation, and I think nerves had the best of me. It took four sticks, and Candie was the lucky one asked to come after my nurse had attempted without success. She was able to get an IV going, told my nurse to mark my chart for a 24 gauge and went on her way.

It was the second week that Candie really stood out. I was simply sitting in the waiting room waiting for my mom and to get called back. Candie walked through the waiting room and remembered me immediately. I was absolutely terrified I would have a repeat of the previous week and be booking a port insertion. She asked how I did after my first week, and without even being prompted she reminded me to not give up on goals, take it week at a time and assured me I wasn't being stubborn, I was just doing what I felt was right for myself. She gave me the confidence to stop second-guessing what I wanted for myself and the encouragement to stay the course. She was so supportive, and I had only met her once for a few minutes. Innocent small chat that meant more to me than she probably knew at the time. I felt like more than a number, and I felt important.

Week 9 was rough for me. Mentally and physically, I was in a bad place. My consistent nurse was out of town, and I lucked into having Candie for the day. It couldn't have come at a better time. The hardest week I'd had, my usual supporter missing, it was so assuring to have a familiar face who had already stuck out as someone who genuinely cared about me. She was simply the best medicine, especially mentally. She was uplifting, reminded me how far I had come, and how everything was likely a fluke. I came in feeling so defeated, and after a morning with Candie, I left feeling motivated to end this course healthier and stronger than I had started, my original plan. I was pitiful, full of hives, my face was a mess, I hadn't slept in like 11 days, and she looked beyond the hives and tired eyes and found a way to remind me I was a fighter, and this wasn't going to define this chapter. She had me laughing and feeling like myself in no time. I was beyond grateful for her that day.

I started my journey planning on doing my 12 weeks of Taxol/Herceptin at the Kenwood location and then moving to Western Ridge for my every 3-week Herceptin infusions after. I simply cannot thank Candie and my consistent nurse enough for all of their support since I first sat in the infusion chair. They are a huge part of my success, and I have every intention of returning to Kenwood until the end of my treatment. I want to ring that bell with those who have truly made an impact and have supported me tirelessly on this journey. Candie, you are an amazing person and caregiver. THANK YOU!