Darlene's Healing Journey: Community in Action

Dear Community,

UPDATE 1/29/2024

Darlene Cordero, beloved friend, mother, and cherished leader in the wellness community, is facing a devastating diagnosis. 5 years after battling breast cancer to become cancer-free, she has just been newly diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer that has metastasized to her liver. Darlene will require extensive and expensive treatments to heal her body – and this will be a lifelong journey of healing.

In her own courageous words, Darlene has opened up about her diagnosis and the journey ahead:

"If I told you I’ve had an easy life, I would be telling you a lie. But amidst the struggles, I have carried an inner sense that I was meant for more. From a young age, I knew deep down that my experiences did not define my true potential. This unwavering belief fueled my determination to lead with my heart and make a positive impact. I understood that regardless of the hardships, life would reward my optimism and resilience.

In 2018, as I celebrated my 40th birthday, I underwent a mammogram that revealed early-stage breast cancer called DCIS. Following a lumpectomy and radiation treatment, I embarked on a journey of self-reflection. This was a pivotal time when I reevaluated my health, relationships, and the impact I wanted to make through my work. I began prioritizing my well-being, delving into living by yogic principles, and making significant shifts toward a healthier lifestyle– shifts that have resulted in a clean bill of health from annual cancer screenings every year. Well, until recently.

Two weeks ago, as I felt abdominal pain, I visited the hospital thinking it was a pulled muscle from a spin class. Within 24 hours, I received the unimaginable news—the cancer had returned, and I was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer that had metastasized in my liver. It was a shock, and questions flooded my mind. How could this happen?

The past few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with fear, uncertainty, and profound gratitude to my friends (earth angels) and community. Despite the overwhelming challenges I now face, Cancer will not define me. This story is not just about me; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community.

This is my story, but it is also our story—a testament to the tenacious human spirit and the boundless capacity for hope, resilience, and love. I hope to inspire others that face their own battles, reminding them that they are not alone. I embrace the opportunity to walk side by side on this path, inspiring and supporting one another as we compose the beautiful narratives of our lives with courage, grace, and unwavering determination."

Forever grateful,

Darlene

The road ahead for Darlene will be filled with various integrative therapies to fight this battle. The costs for these treatments will be high and she won’t be able to work as much as she would like or need to. Worrying about finances is the last additional stressor she needs. Let’s rally around Darlene and provide financial support to cover her living expenses, medical bills (not covered by insurance), travel and accommodations for her family (since she is on a different coast than her immediate family), and pet care.

Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a profound impact on Darlene's life. It will help ease the financial burden and allow her to focus on her recovery. Together, we can be the driving force that helps her navigate this difficult chapter with strength and hope.

Fundraising isn't just about financial donations; it's also about raising awareness. We kindly ask you to share this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks to help us reach a wider audience and maximize our impact. By spreading the word, we can bring more attention to Darlene's journey and inspire others to join us in supporting her.

Today, let us come together as a community to uplift and support someone who has spent her life uplifting and supporting others. Let's show Darlene that we are by her side, every step of the way, and that we believe in her ability to overcome this challenge with grace and ease.

Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and generosity. Together, we can make a difference in Darlene's life and be a source of strength and healing.

With gratitude,

Darlene’s Friends and Family