Mother and Daughter: Journey To Healing

My name is Chasity Nolton, better known as Chad. As my 34th birthday approaches, I’ve gained a new outlook on life and its overall meaning. The last few months have truly devastated my family and our journey is far from over. A couple of months ago, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram. The breast cancer fight is all too familiar as we recently loss a family member less than a year ago to this agonizing disease. After finding out about my mother’s diagnosis, I immediately went into overdrive thinking about how I would have to be there every step of the way to support her in this journey.  I decided to be proactive and get checked understanding that breast cancer now runs in my family. I immediately scheduled a mammogram and on February 24, I got the phone call informing me that I too have breast cancer. This news completely turned my life upside down. I dreaded telling my mom because she is my priority and I need to be strong for her. Never did I imagine that I would be fighting my own battle. I was shaken to my core knowing I would have to deliver this news to her.  With so many moving parts to cancer treatment, I immediately notified my job of my diagnosis and was told that I would be able to receive short term disability. Amid trying to figure things out, I was informed that more testing would need to be done as it appeared that cancer was in both of my breasts. I realized that my healing process would take more time resulting in a longer leave from work. Shortly after, I learned that I would not be able to receive disability because I am not a full-time employee. I felt helpless but also thankful for the insurance with my job to help cover medical expenses. Outside of my part time job, I own a valet company which requires my presence to operate effectively. My treatment plan will require surgery and recovery time, but as we all know, my expenses will not stop. I have contemplated and prayed about using this platform to ask others for help because I take pride in handling things on my own. As I embark on this journey with myself and my mother, I realize how important it is to spread awareness as well as seek help from a community that I am well connected with and to. The reality is I cannot do this on my own. There is no way I can help support my mom in the way I envisioned when we both will be doing treatment at the same time. My hope is that after reading this, you all will find it in your hearts to give a kind donation to myself and my mom as we fight the journey of breast cancer together. I appreciate all the kind words, prayers and heartfelt donations.