This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, trust your instincts and get screened. That’s exactly what Kei did, and it saved her life. Kei had just relocated to Texas from Illinois, newly married and full of hope for a fresh start. With her husband and her 9-year-old son by her side, she was ready to build a new life. Just three weeks after moving, Kei was laid off from her job and lost her health insurance.
She was uninsured when she noticed an indention in her breast that had grown in size. The indention was initially spotted two years earlier, but her former provider didn’t pursue further screening. Kei’s instinct was to search for help, and that’s how she discovered Lone Star Circle of Care’s Big Pink Bus.
Kei qualified for a mammogram through the Big Pink Bus at no cost. With no prior scans to compare, she also received a follow-up screening. The diagnosis: Stage 2 invasive ductal carcinoma.
“When I was told of my diagnosis, I saw the patient navigator talking and explaining my results, but I couldn’t hear the words coming out of her mouth,” Kei shared. “I was in a state of shock.”
The Big Pink Bus team stood by Kei’s side by helping her apply for Medicaid, understand her diagnosis, and navigate her to treatment. Their support gave Kei the compassion and clarity she desperately needed.
“If it wouldn’t have been for the Big Pink Bus and the team being so compassionate and understanding, I don’t think I would be in active treatment right now,” Kei explained. “They helped me walk through what this journey would be and helped me find the resources I needed.”
Kei underwent a lumpectomy in June, followed by chemotherapy beginning in August. Today, she is in her second round of treatment, and there are no signs of cancer. She will continue hormone therapy for the next 5–10 years, which will prevent pregnancy, but has given her more time with the family she cherishes.
Once a private person, Kei found healing in sharing her story on TikTok, where she received an outpouring of support from other breast cancer patients and survivors. She now encourages other women to trust their instincts and get screened.
Kei’s advice to women who are hesitant to get a mammogram:
“If you feel like something is wrong, get a mammogram. Just give yourself that peace of mind.”
And to those who support the Big Pink Bus, Kei shares her heartfelt gratitude:
“I am so grateful to the Big Pink Bus and all who support it. There is nothing that I can do or say to thank them for their generosity. They have given me more time with my husband and son. You are making an impact. You’re saving lives, you’re giving people hope, you’re giving people more time with their loved ones.”
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, your gift can help more women like Kei receive life-saving screenings and compassionate care, regardless of their ability to pay.
Please consider making a donation today. Together, we can keep the Big Pink Bus rolling and continue saving lives across Central Texas.
