Emily’s Story
Emily Riera has been a member of Burn Boot Camp Huntersville for over a year. Emily was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 31 years old. Her story begins with her mom, who is also a survivor of breast cancer.
After her mom’s diagnosis, she became a volunteer with the American Cancer Society where she heard about genetic testing. Finding out that knowledge led Emily and her twin sister to get tested. Their results came back positive for the BRCA 1 genetic mutation.
Throughout Emily’s adult life, she had been having regular mammograms. Finally, she decided to have an MRI. Within a week of having the MRI, she found out that she had breast cancer.
Throughout The Fight
Emily found out that she had breast cancer through the phone. She went into immediate panic mode and left work. Emily and her mother shared moments of despair throughout the diagnosis.
Emily goes on to say that while her mother felt guilty because she had the gene, Emily could not be any more grateful for her mom.
During Emily’s battle with breast cancer, she was surrounded by an incredible support group. In addition, she did research about breast cancer and her husband took notes at all of her doctor’s visits to stay organized.
One of Emily’s biggest regrets is not starting Burn Boot Camp sooner. She was hesitant that the workout would be too intense, but everything can be modified and getting stronger can help keep your body healthy. Exercise can be a preventive measure for cancer!
Her advice for someone who is newly diagnosed is to ask questions. Be diligent about your health. She also advises that you maintain good health through nutrition and exercise.
If you have any family history of breast cancer, research more information about possible links to cancer. By educating yourself, you can take proactive measures.
Finally, to all other survivors, she says to be the village to your friends and your community. It’s important to listen and give advice. Knowing that someone has a person to love, to pray and to help them can mean the world.
