10/14/2026
Behind every pink ribbon is a story. A story of strength, courage, fear, hope, and the determination to keep fighting.
Today, we want to share Brandy’s journey with breast cancer. Her story is a powerful reminder that breast cancer is more than a diagnosis — it touches lives, families, friendships, and entire communities.
Through Forever Pink, we honor the fighters, celebrate the survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and stand beside those still on their journey. 🎀
🎀 Breast cancer awareness is something that has always been near and dear to my heart. 🎀
Breast cancer is something I’ve heard about since I was a little girl. I remember my mom and her four sisters calling one another every year when it was time for their annual mammograms. There was always so much fear and anxiety surrounding those appointments because they had already experienced the unimaginable loss of their own mom to breast cancer at the young age of just 49.
Sadly, breast cancer hasn’t skipped a generation in our family, and that reality is scary. It’s something that has always stayed in the back of my mind and something I knew I couldn’t ignore.
That’s why I chose to be proactive and undergo genetic testing. Many of my female cousins and aunts did the same. Although we learned that our family doesn’t carry a specific known gene mutation, I was flagged at high risk. With a high risk score I couldn’t take my chances.
At that point in my life, I had three young children and a husband who needed me. I knew I needed to do everything within my power to protect my future and give myself the best chance possible of being here for them for years to come.
After meeting with an incredible team of doctors in Omaha, I made the deeply personal decision to undergo preventive surgery. I had a prophylactic double mastectomy with DIEP flap reconstruction.
It wasn’t an easy decision, but I can’t begin to describe the peace and relief I feel knowing I took steps to reduce my risk. I’m incredibly thankful I had the opportunity to make an informed decision about my health and my future. I now consider myself a previvor.
I share my story because awareness, early detection, knowing your family history, and advocating for yourself matter SO much. Please don’t put off your annual mammogram. Talk with your doctor about your family history, ask questions, and find out whether genetic counseling or additional screening may be right for you.
And please remember, just because you don’t carry a known genetic mutation doesn’t necessarily mean your risk is low. Family history and other factors matter, too.
Breast cancer has touched my family in ways I wish it never had. If sharing my story encourages even one person to schedule an appointment, ask a question, or take a closer look at their family history, then it’s worth sharing.
Be proactive. Know your risk. Advocate for yourself. Your life and your future are worth it.
-Brandi Dorsey🩷
