Meet Carletta
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 41. As a survivor, I’m committed to working toward my health goals and giving back to the community that helped me through treatment.
Finding My Motivation
Carletta, age 44, talks about how knowing her family history of breast cancer made it easier for her to be proactive about talking to her doctor when she noticed changes in her body. Carletta was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 41, and she finished her first triathlon one year after her first chemotherapy treatment.
My “keep it moving” motto helped me stay positive through treatment.
With cancer treatment behind me, the motto reminds me to move my body to protect my health and continue seeking adventure—whether it’s playing tennis, competing in my first triathlon, or training for a 120-mile kayak and bike ride.
It’s not always easy for me to meet my health goals—like eating well. But my motto pushes me to be my healthiest self to lower my risk of getting cancer again or having the cancer come back.
The Value of a Strong Support System
Carletta found the strength to beat breast cancer by mapping out her own strategy. Listen to her story, and be inspired to take control of your breast health.
Asking for and accepting help as a patient and survivor was difficult for me. But I recognized over time that my friends and family wanted to help—they just weren’t always sure how. I just needed to let them know.
One of the best ways that my friends helped me was by encouraging me to be honest with my feelings. I wasn’t always feeling positive, and that was okay.
I use my experience to offer the same love and encouragement to my friends affected by cancer.
Giving Back to the Breast Cancer Community
I am thankful for the support I got from breast cancer groups throughout my diagnosis and treatment.
I give back to this community through volunteering and serving on executive boards. Through my involvement, I ensure these groups meet the unique needs of survivors and minority women.
Carletta’s Videos
Carletta was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 41. Now cancer-free, she is motivated by her ability to do the things that she couldn’t do during treatment. She finished her first triathlon one year after her first round of chemotherapy.
Carletta never met her grandmother, who died from breast cancer at the age of 44. Carletta’s family history inspired her to understand her own risk. She encourages young women with a family history of cancer to learn their risk for breast cancer.