Gifting has never been easier
Perfect if you're short on time or are unable to deliver your gift yourself. Enter your message and select when to send it.
At just 19, Miranda McKeon faced the unimaginable, a stage III breast cancer diagnosis that turned her world upside down.
Today, she is a passionate advocate for cancer research and early detection, sharing her story with us to remind young women to know their bodies and speak up for their health.
How were you diagnosed?
I discovered a lump on my right breast the summer of 2021 and immediately knew something was wrong. It felt like a jelly bean was planted right under my skin and somehow I had never noticed it before. The next day I had an appointment with my primary care doctor to get it checked out.
On June 14th 2021 I was diagnosed with stage III invasive ductal carcinoma. It had already spread to my lymph nodes. I underwent freezing my eggs, 8 rounds of chemo, a double mastectomy, lost all my hair, and 25 rounds of radiation.
What were your first thoughts and fears?
Believe it or not – I was more concerned about losing my hair than the actual cancer! I was 19 years old and it was the summer before my second year of college at USC, an extremely lively, vibrant, party school.
Your biggest source of strength and support during that time?
Cheesy and expected – but my family and friends. They picked me up when everything seemed to be falling apart and I could not be more grateful. They still celebrate all of my anniversaries with me and were the best medicine on hard days. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world to have such an amazing support system - it’s truly a privilege.
Why is raising funds for critical cancer research so important?
New women are being diagnosed everyday and this disease is still not cured. We need more! I don't want to live in a world where I am still fraught with anxiety about having a cancer recurrence and being diagnosed stage III. Women should not have to live with this fear anymore. The power of research funding to move the needle is incredible.
help us support The Pink Agenda
100% of Proceeds Donated
Fluffy Bed Socks Hot Pink
or 4 interest-free payments of $2.50 with
Size
Quantity:
What message would you share with young women about breast health and self-awareness?
Know your body and advocate for yourself (or find someone with you who can). If you notice anything is off, speak up! Self breast exams are NOT weird and can be done so easily in the shower. There are cute diagrams online who show you how to do them. They save so many lives each year and are one of the most empowering tools we have as women.
Are there any myths or misconceptions about breast cancer in young people that you would like to clear up?
Anyone can get breast cancer! I had no family history, exercised regularly, have been eating organic foods since I was tiny, and was well below breast cancer screening guidelines. My case was definitely an exception to the norm but it is a stark reminder that we are all in charge of our own health and is not something to take for granted. Our health journeys can actually be super fun and exciting if you make it!