As many of you know, in 2023 during my senior year of college, I was diagnosed with Dermatofibersarcoma protuberans (DFSP), which is an incredibly rare form of soft tissue sarcoma cancer that effects 4 out of 1 million people per year. What started as a small bump on my forehead turned into three wide incision surgeries, a hockey puck sized wound on my face, one innovative reconstructive surgery, and a long road of recovery. 

DFSP has changed my life. It forced me to be strong and let go of control of my own body. I will forever be left with the scars DFSP left me - both physically and mentally. I chose to stay strong and optimistic during this time, but it wasn’t always easy, and it didn’t mean it wasn’t terrifying. I would not be where I am today without my support system and my incredible team of doctors at Mass General hospital. Thanks to them, on August 31st 2023, I had what is hopefully my last surgery for DFSP, and I was the first patient ever at MGH to receive spray skin Recell technology to treat a full skin thickness wound. 
If anything positive has come from this journey, it’s the fact that I know the amazing work my doctors did for me will be used as research and published for other doctors around the world, and we will help and educate others like me. 
I’ve been able to share my story and educate others, while working to try and break the stigma of cancer being such a bad word. I have met so many incredible people through this journey, many of who will be joining me doing this race. 
Research and awareness is SO important and necessary for survival. Donations made to the to this fundraiser allow more research for sarcomas, which is so desperately needed so that more patients can have a successful outcome like mine.💛 THANK YOU!