Janet Ruiz

Survivor

Her2CANCERvive

In 2018 I was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. I was diagnosed with her2 negative and her2 positive. 

When I was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer, it felt like my entire world collapsed in an instant. The fear, the guilt for neglecting my own health, and the overwhelming uncertainty for the future weighed heavily on me. I couldn’t stop thinking about how I had gone two years without a mammogram, and the thought of what might have been prevented haunted me.

But through those dark moments, I found unexpected strength. I became more aware of the immense love and support surrounding me—my family, friends, and community rallied around me in ways I never imagined. The experience forced me to slow down and reflect on what truly mattered, pushing me to fight for my health and my future. It also became a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care, not just for myself but for others.

In the end, cancer didn’t just take from me—it gave me a renewed perspective on life, one of gratitude and resilience.