Survivor Stories: Jillian

When Jillian first heard the words triple negative breast cancer, her world tilted in ways she could never have imagined. What followed was a journey filled with hard days, long treatments, and moments of doubt—but also an incredible discovery of her own resilience. Jillian’s story is one of courage, hope, and the quiet strength it takes to face the unthinkable and keep moving forward. Today, she shares not just what it took to get through, but how she found light, laughter, and purpose along the way.

Name: Jillian

Age at diagnosis: 24

Cancer type & Stage: Triple Negative Breast Cancer - stage 1

Can you share a little bit about your cancer story—your diagnosis and what your treatment looked like?

I was diagnosed in March 2023 with TNBC at age 24. I found my lump due to a self-exam, and I just knew something did not feel right, so I went to my gyno, and right away, she had me get an ultrasound, which turned into a breast biopsy. Not even a month later, I started treatment. I got a port since I was doing 16 rounds of chemo, 12 weekly rounds of carboplatin and taxol, and then four rounds every two weeks of adriamycin and cytoxan. I tried Cold Capping with Paxman to help reduce hair loss. I finished my 16 rounds of chemo on September 21, 2023, and had my Double mastectomy with expanders on October 30, 2023. Thankfully, I did not need to undergo radiation. On November 8, I heard from my Breast Surgeon regarding my pathology report that my margins were clear and everything was negative! However, there was a small area leftover, and even though it was negative, I did end up going on oral chemo for about 6 months! After my double mastectomy, I would see my plastic surgeon to get my expanders filled and have my exchange surgery on February 20, 2024. I finished my oral chemo in July 2024, and since then, I was able to get my port removed and had a revision surgery in December 2024!!!

What was the hardest part of that time for you, and what helped you get through it?

From when I was diagnosed, I felt like I was in the fight or flight mode, and I genuinely do not think I ever processed what was happening. I was always on the go, and I was in survival mode. I remember after my double mastectomy being so sad and really struggling mentally, and finally processing what just happened, seeing my body for the first time, and what was taken from me sunk in. I think my support system, being around friends and family, has always helped me. I just tried to find the positive in my journey and take pride in myself instead of dwelling on the hardships.

Did you have any support systems (family, friends, community) that played a big role in your journey?

My family and friend did, I personally did not do much support groups until after treatment, but connecting with other Breasties is always such a beautiful thing!

If chemo was part of your treatment, what were your “must-haves” for infusion days?

An electric blanket!! With cold capping i was so cold and I loved having that blanket to keep me warm! I slept a lot during treatment since my days were almost 6-7 hours long so anything that could make me feel more comfortable was the best!

Did you have a favorite outfit, accessory, or comfort item that made treatment feel a little easier?

Every chemo I wore a colored sweat suit and fun themed socks! My family also gifted me with hedgehog stuffed animals which I brought with me every chemo and was a good source of comfort for me.

Were there small rituals or routines that helped you feel more in control during treatment?

Not really, but attending chemo weekly you start to become a pro.

Do you have any tips for others just starting treatment?

I know its very hard to not think the worst, but staying positive is big during treatment. I think having a positive mindset can really go a long way.

How did you take care of yourself—physically, emotionally, or mentally—during treatment?

I enjoyed staying active so I would go on walks daily when I felt up for it and just tried to maintain a routine. So I think staying active is extremely helpful and it helped my mind when i was in random funks.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to a friend supporting someone going through a cancer diagnosis?

Just be there for them! Maybe checking in after a chemo.day, its okay if they do not only want to talk about cancer.

Were there any specific products, snacks, or entertainment (books, shows, music) that brought you comfort during treatment?

Since I slept during my treatments I did not need entertainment, but I always made sure to have snacks or my family would go to the cafe to pick up lunch! I am a big left over girl so I would normally pack leftover dinner since I love a home cooked meal

What was the most meaningful or helpful gift you received?

I got a few bracelets from friends from Little Words Project which I still wear to this day. So I would wear them during chemo for some positive encouragement.

Are there any organizations, resources, or communities you’d recommend to others in treatment?

The Breasties, TNBC Thrivers, and Marys Place by the Sea

How has survivorship changed your perspective on life?

I have learned to enjoy it more and do not take it for granted. Your life can be turned upside down in a second. I find myself not stressing/ to worrying over the little things. Do what makes you happy.

What’s something you’re proud of when you look back on your experience?

Everything. Being diagnosed at a young age really changed my life, and from March 2023 to now, I believe I have changed as a person, and I'm proud of how much stronger I've become.

What does survivorship mean to you today?

For me there will always be a fear it comes back, but i cant live in fear. So enjoying life and sharing my story for the next 24 year old who feels a lump.

Jillian’s journey is proof that even in the face of the hardest battles, there can be moments of beauty, growth, and joy. While cancer reshaped her path, it also revealed a strength she didn’t know she had—and a reminder that survivorship is about so much more than statistics. It’s about reclaiming life on your own terms, celebrating each small victory, and carrying forward hope for the future. Jillian’s story is a testament to what it means not just to survive, but to truly live.