Patricia Almendarez is a three-time breast cancer survivor from Mission, Texas.  Her first diagnosis was in February 1999 and then in 2015 she had a recurrence.  Her most recent diagnosis was in April 2020.  She is currently going through target therapy via Verzino daily oral medication.  Her latest scans show stability with no signs of growth.

After a self- breast examination on February 4, 1999, Patricia felt a lump.  Things moved quickly from there – seeing a doctor the next day, mammogram on February 8th, surgeon on February 10th , and surgery on February 15th. Patricia says, “Those 11 days changed my life forever.” She was only 35 years old and her daughters were ages 3, 2, and 8 months old.

A few days after surgery, Patricia had her first contact with the American Cancer Society through the Reach To Recovery Program.  She had a visit from a co-survivor who came to bring her hope.  About a month later, Patricia attended the ACS Look Good, Feel Better Program.  As she was preparing for chemotherapy, her husband contacted the ACS hotline.  Not only did the hotline offer a wealth of information, they also answered so many questions he had and offered words of encouragement.

Patricia has been relaying with Upper-Valley Relay For Life since 2000.  In 2002, she became an active volunteer with the Reach to Recovery Program.  She is a product of continued research enabled by the funds raised through Relay For Life.  Relay For Life reminds Patricia, “I am not alone in this terrible battle and my journey has taught me to appreciate life.”  My faith in God, the love of my husband and daughters, and my family and friends continue to be my support.”  Patricia is a strong advocate for early detection.  It is her hope to reach out to others, so they know they are not alone.