A Dallas woman is sharing her story about why raising money for research and a cure is so important.
"I'm 35. I'm active. I'm healthy. There's no family history," said Kristen Costa, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last month.
She's been working with doctors to find out what led to her cancer. She tested negative for the BRCA genes associatied with cancer and wonders if environmental or lifestyle factors contributed to the disease.
Nevertheless, ever since she discovered the lump during a self examination, she's taken it all in stride.
She's undergoing chemotherapy and planning for a double mastectomy.
"Every Thursday, I go into treatment and I say that I'm in high heels and high spirits and everyone, all the nurses say, 'We've never seen anyone wear high heels to chemo!' So a lot of it is the way that you feel and mind over matter," Costa said.
She said her support system has been just as vital as medication.
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On Saturday, supporters will take part in the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Dallas. The noncompetitive 3-to-5 mile walk raises money, and awareness, for breast cancer research.
Registration for the walk begins at 7:30 a.m. and the walk begins at 9 a.m. at the Ron Kirk Pedestrian Bridge. More information can be found here.
