Honoring Survivors During National Cancer Survivors Month

During National Cancer Survivors Month, we honor those who are currently in treatment and those who have fought the disease like Kiella, a 9-year breast cancer survivor. In August 2012, she noticed a small bump that felt like a marble. After a mammogram, MRI and needle biopsy, she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer – one of the most aggressive types of breast cancer that affects young women and people of color.

“From that day forward my fight began and there was no turning back,” said Kiella. “The life I knew was changed forever with that devastating news.”

Kiella’s first lumpectomy surgery was unsuccessful, and after five minutes of surgery, she had anaphylactic reaction to the blue dye used to locate her lymph nodes and spent the afternoon in ICU recovering. During her second lumpectomy, the cancerous tumor was successfully removed, and her lymph nodes came back clear of any cancer.

“With that great news, I still had a long road ahead,” said Kiella. “I began one of four chemotherapy treatments on Dec. 21, 2012 and completed chemotherapy on Feb. 22, 2013. I later completed radiation therapy on May 2, 2013.”

While many cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, require blood products during treatment, Kiella did not. Yet, she believes it is important for individuals to know that blood and platelet transfusions could be the needed boost to help save the lives of those fighting cancer.

“It’s critically important for people to be aware,” said Kiella. “Think of the countless lives you could save by donating blood.”

Kiella, who is a spokesperson and advocate for cancer awareness and early detection, enjoys running, traveling, watching sports and spending time with her two children and husband.

“I appreciate life and cherish every moment I can spend with my family,” said Kiella. “Giving blood is a great way to give others more time with their loved ones as well.”

Has someone you love faced a #cancer diagnosis? Join the American Red Cross & American Cancer Society #GiveBloodToGiveTime campaign and donate blood or platelets this month as a meaningful way to honor those with cancer or those who've overcome cancer. Schedule now: rcblood.org/3tTD9rV