"AppleStrong": A Journey of Faith, Gratitude, and Unshakable Support

What began as a routine second mammogram at age 41 quickly became life-changing for one of UNC Health Wayne’s operating room team members. After a follow-up biopsy—initially described as precautionary—she received the diagnosis no one wants to hear: breast cancer.

“I got the call while I was at work in the OR,” she remembers. “Before I could even process the word cancer, my teammates were already by my side, wrapping me in comfort and support.”

That moment marked the start of a long and courageous journey—one that required strength, strategy, and faith. With guidance from her care team, she created a “fight plan” for surgery and treatment. Her coworkers went above and beyond to help, donating PTO so she could focus on recovery, launching an “Applestrong” shirt fundraiser, and even purchasing a wig to help her feel like herself during chemo.

But the support didn’t stop there. “My team surrounded me with love—blankets, visits, encouragement, even a pink Christmas tree decorated in breast cancer ornaments. On Valentine’s Day, when I was in the thick of chemo and battling COVID, they delivered a full meal to my porch. I was physically weak, but emotionally lifted.”

Meal trains, hospital visits, and constant encouragement from both her teammates and her church community helped her through the most difficult moments. “Every gesture reminded me I wasn’t alone.”

Now, she pays that kindness forward by leading a cancer support group at her church. “If you’re facing cancer, know this: you are stronger than you realize. Lean on faith, family, and community. The love I received changed everything—and it’s why I continue to give back.”

As she puts it: “We do not fight alone. The staff at Wayne made all the difference.”