In November 2025, my world changed with four words no one ever wants to hear: "You have breast cancer."
I was diagnosed with Stage 0 Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)and Stage 1 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, hormone-positive breast cancer. The months that followed were filled with fear, uncertainty, countless appointments, difficult decisions, a lumpectomy in February 2026, and ultimately a double mastectomy in May 2026.
Gilda's Club became so much more than a resource—it became a lifeline. From support groups where I could speak openly with others who truly understood, to educational programs and creative social activities that helped me feel like me again. Gilda's Club gave me something cancer had taken away: a sense of normalcy. Today, I continue to use Gilda's Club monthly, and sometimes weekly. It is a place where I feel seen, heard, and supported without having to explain myself. It is a community of people who understand the fears, the victories, the grief, and the hope that come with a cancer diagnosis. The friendships and support I've found there have helped me navigate one of the hardest chapters of my life.
Gilda's Club provides free emotional support, cancer education, and hope to children and adults facing any type of cancer, as well as their loved ones and caregivers. No one should have to face cancer alone, and because of Gilda's Club, fewer people do.
Today, I'm asking for your help. I've set a fundraising goal of $2,000 to support Gilda's Club and ensure their services remain available at no cost to individuals and families affected by cancer. Any donation, no matter the size, will make a difference. If you're unable to give, sharing my fundraiser would also mean a great deal to me.
A $67 donation equals 1 month of counseling and support for a memeber.
$100 can be utilized for 5 weeks of supplies for Kid Support- therapeutic arts and activites for kids participating in Tuesday night Kid Support programing.
A $132 donation is equavalent to 2 months of emotional and educational support.
Thank you for your love, encouragement, and support throughout this journey. It truly means more than I can express.
With gratitude,
Yareli ❤️
Who or what is Simi? Dr. Simi is an adorable Mexican mascot that wears a white lab coat, gray/white mustache and stethoscope often seen dancing outside of pharmacy locations in Mexico. Dr. Simi has brought me great joy and brighten my days with each piece of memorabilia I get or videos I encounter of his.