HER STORY

Hello, my name is Shakena Duren-Dent. As I share my story, I'm reminded of the darkest days that tested my faith, my strength, and my will to live.  In 2019, at 45 years old, I received the devastating news: I had breast cancer.

 

My world shattered into a million pieces. But what's remarkable is that I'm the one who discovered the lump that changed everything. It was a self-examination that saved my life. I'll never forget the mix of emotions that flooded me in that moment – shock, fear, uncertainty.

 

The diagnosis not only shook my health but also my finances, my business, and my sense of identity. I felt lost, alone, and scared. The road to recovery seemed impossible, but I knew I had to keep moving forward.

 

To make matters worse, my diagnosis coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals were overwhelmed, resources were scarce, and fear was Intensifying. I remember the isolation, the loneliness, and the uncertainty that gripped me during those long, dark days.

 

Despite the challenges, I underwent a bilateral mastectomy, endured 12 rounds of chemotherapy, and faced the harsh reality of two failed reconstructive surgeries. But in that brokenness, I found a strange sense of liberation. I chose to embrace my new body, to love myself just as I am – "boobless" and beautiful.

 

As I navigated the treacherous waters of cancer treatment, I realized I wasn't alone. There were countless others fighting the same battle, facing the same fears, and struggling to make ends meet. I saw myself in them, and they in me. We were warriors, fighting for our lives, our dignity, and our hope.

 

That's when I knew I had to do something more. I couldn't just survive cancer; I had to help others thrive despite it.  Today, my dream is to create a foundation that provides more than just financial support – it offers a lifeline of hope, a reminder that no one

fights alone.

 

With every step, every stumble, and every triumph, I know It was God's grace that carried me through

the storm, and I know every step of my recovery was part of

His plan. Today, I stand as a testament to the

power of faith, hope, and determination.

My journey with breast cancer has been

difficult, but it has also given me a

newfound appreciation for life and a

sense of purpose.