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On Oct. 30, 2014, at age 32, Lavery was diagnosed with Stage 1A breast cancer. She describes her immediate emotions as scared, anxious and angry. A private person, Lavery was apprehensive to share her story with others at first, but she does so as a reminder “that there is no such thing as being too young, healthy or invincible to educate yourself and advocate for your own health.”
Since her diagnosis and treatment, Lavery has connected with other breast cancer survivors through Komen Southern New England and has made it her personal mission to be a resource to other young women who find themselves faced with a cancer diagnosis.
“I believe I have a greater purpose in this world and for this disease, and I want to be a resource for other young women who are fighting,” she said.
Lavery says the comfort and understanding you find in someone who has gone through what you have is the best therapy and that she will continue to support Komen Southern New England until there is a cure.
An active runner, Lavery was training for the Philadelphia Marathon at the time of her diagnosis. She gave running up temporarily, but came to realize that she loved it and it was important to her health and wellbeing. As campaign model, Lavery will speak on stage the morning of the race.
Race for the Cure includes a certified 5K run and 5K walk and participants can choose whether they would like to be timed. Youth under 16 may take part in the timed or untimed 5K or participate in the Kids’ 1K. Survivors are encouraged to join Komen Southern New England at the Survivor Breakfast beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Click here for more information about Komen Southern New England’s mission, to register for the Race for the Cure or make a donation.
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