08/19/2026
This month's Breast Cancer Survivor in Faithful Warriors - Breast Cancer Support Group 2026 calendar is Elvia Maciel Gibbs .. Elvia is a co-founder of Titi's Tatas Foundation. They are dedicated to raising awareness about breast health, educating the community on the early detection, and providing financial assistance for breast screenings.
This is Elvia Gibbs Story:
In February 2024, Elvia Gibbs, age 37, was performing her monthly self-breast exam and felt a rock hard lump on her left breast. She knew she had never felt it there before so she immediately contacted her OBGYN. Her OBGYN examined her that same day and confirmed that a diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound would be needed.
Both the mammogram and the ultrasound returned with an abnormal result and the words "Highly suggestive of malignancy" were written right next to it. Two days later a biopsy was performed, and received the call no one ever wishes to receive. The doctor informed her she was diagnosed with Stage 1B Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, a form of breast cancer.
The following day she left to meet her team at MD Anderson and her breast cancer journey would begin. The next 39 days would consist of multiple scans, a biopsy, genetic testing, on infertility, and undergo a lumpectomy surgery in April which would answer all of her prayers, to clear margins and get a cancer free report.
Since Elvia's diagnosis of Stage 1B Invasive Ductal Carcinoma was at the early age of 37 and high grade of the tumor, she would require additional treatment which would give her the best chance of preventing any future recurrence. She was given 5 months of aggressive chemotherapy and after 3 weeks of radiation. Elvia rang the victory bell that symbolized the end of her treatments in November. Through it all she never lost her smile. God granted her peace, and gave her strength knowing she was never alone, that she was going to be just fine!
God has truly given Elvia a strong purpose in life. Through her cancer diagnosis, she has learned just how important it is to use the voice God gave her. She's become a passionate advocate for cancer patients and co-founded Titi's Tatas Foundation and serves as Vice-President; a nonprofit that helps educate women on the importance of early detection as well as provide financial assistance for mammogram screenings. Elvia also volunteers with the American Cancer Society Action network. She helps advocate on important topics like proper health care screenings and research for cancer patients.
Elvia states, "When I was diagnosed with cancer I felt like my life was over. God showed me that my life had just begun."