Sisters Who Cancer Together: A Story of Strength, Support, and Sisterhood
“We are survivors. We are sisters. And together, we are proof that love, laughter, and early detection can change everything.”
Our Story
In July 2019, my sister was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, and in that instant, our family’s world changed. I didn’t think twice — I was there for every chemo session, every scan, every hospital stay.
We made the best of it, because that’s what sisters do. We ordered pizza in the chemo suite, colored in adult coloring books, and cracked jokes with the nurses.
Somehow, amid IV poles and beeping monitors, we still found laughter.
There were endless hospitalizations — early mornings and late nights — and I stayed through all of them, sometimes sleeping in a chair just so she would never be alone. Through it all, my sister developed an incredible bond with her oncologist. Watching the way she was cared for left an impression on me that would come full circle later on.
Samantha’s Story
In July 2019, after discovering a small lump in my right breast, I was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer; triple positive (ER/PR+, HER2+). Although the lump measured just two centimeters, the cancer had already spread to my bones, causing a seven-centimeter tumor that fractured my spine. I was 28 years old — a new mom suddenly thrust into a world of scans, infusions, and uncertainty.
In the six years since, I’ve undergone more than 15 surgeries, over 40 rounds of radiation, and countless hospitalizations. I’m still on my first line of treatment, something my medical team often reminds me is remarkably rare. This year, I celebrated two milestones I once thought I’d never see — my 35th birthday and my 100th treatment, both in the same week.
Sharsheret has been part of my life from the very beginning — even before I was ready to accept support. At first, reaching out made my diagnosis feel too real, so I waited. But when I was ready, Sharsheret was still there, waiting with open arms.
Over the years, they’ve shown up in countless ways: sending eyebrow kits during chemo, a mastectomy pillow, cozy care packages, and warm meals for my family through a kind, anonymous caterer who supports stage IV thrivers. Now, I give back as a peer mentor, panelist, and oncology social worker, sharing my experience to help others feel less alone.
Cancer has reshaped my life in ways I never imagined — but it hasn’t taken away my sense of purpose or gratitude. Each day, I move forward with a deep appreciation for the present and hope for many more milestones ahead.
Tori’s Story
When I turned 40, I scheduled my first mammogram — just like every woman is told to do. Days later came the call: “We found something suspicious.”
That moment began years of high-risk monitoring: mammograms and ultrasounds every six months, alternating with MRIs in between. Each appointment brought a mix of fear and relief — and nearly every time, something new required more testing. Biopsies. Lumpectomies. Follow-ups. I used to joke that I had a punch card: ten visits,
get the next biopsy free.
Behind the humor was real anxiety. But I stayed proactive and hopeful, trusting my care team and knowing that vigilance mattered.
Then, in March 2023, the words I had feared arrived: Stage 1B invasive ductal carcinoma (ER/PR positive, HER2 negative). It was my turn — and I wasn’t alone. I had my sister. And I had Sharsheret.
From the very first call, Sharsheret provided what I didn’t even know I needed — connection. They paired me with women who understood. They sent thoughtful care packages and even a Busy Box for my daughter — a small act of kindness that meant the world to both of us.
Through every procedure and every sleepless night, Sharsheret stayed close, reminding me that while cancer may change your story, it doesn’t define it.
I could not have done this without my family — especially my sister, my hero, who stood beside me for every appointment, every surgery, and every moment of fear or hope. Now, in the most beautiful twist of fate, I am cancer-free, and Samantha is NED(no evidence of disease).
Cancer has transformed us, but it has not diminished who we are. It has made us more grateful, more grounded, and more aware of what truly matters: love, faith, laughter, and the incredible support of Sharsheret.
Together, We Move Forward
We are living proof that early detection saves lives, that sisterhood heals, and that with compassion and community, there is always hope.
■ — Samantha & Tori