I'm Stacy Patrick, a 9-year breast cancer survivor from Indiana. I live with my husband Nick and our sons Caliber and Gatlin. My journey began in June 2015, shortly after having our second child and losing my mom the prior year.

During a checkup, I mentioned a spot on my breast to my OB-GYN. Though not overly concerned due to breastfeeding, he recommended a baseline mammogram given my family history of breast cancer. The mammogram revealed calcifications, which prompted a biopsy.

I'll never forget my doctor's words: "Stacy, you have breast cancer."

I was only 36 with a toddler and infant.

Tests also revealed I carried the BRCA2 gene mutation, increasing my cancer risks. My sisters also tested positive, meaning our children have a 50% chance of inheriting it.

Initially, the plan was a hysterectomy, double mastectomy, reconstruction, and medication. But a lymph node biopsy changed everything to chemotherapy, radiation, and further surgery.

The next several months brought chemo from September to December 2015, a year of Herceptin, radiation, and finally reconstruction. It was grueling, but my incredible support system carried me through. Friends and family surrounded me with love and prayers.

While the journey was arduous, I'm blessed to be here, raising my boys alongside my amazing loved ones. I hold my head high as a survivor and hope my story inspires others to stay strong.