In September 2022, at 33 years old, Ashley Baxter was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer after sudden pain in her underarm led to the discovery of tumors in her lymph nodes. A biopsy confirmed what no one expected. She says even her surgeon was shocked. Since then, Ashley's breast cancer journey has included surgeries, countless rounds of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, rest and reflecting on life.

 Through it all, her greatest motivation has been her two young children, now ages 9 and 5.

"They have seen me on difficult days when treatment kept me in bed, but they have also seen me get up and showing up for school events, cheering at sports games and working part-time at the YMCA, where we loved spending summer days at the pool together," says Ashley. "We even went to Disney World!" 

Over the past three years, Ashley has faced many scans and, more often than not, received news of new growths, from a single spot on her spine to cancer spreading through almost every bone, and most recently, her liver. But, she refuses to let this slow her down. She continues weekly chemotherapy and is tolerating it well. 

Most importantly, she's focused on making memories and living fully--whether it’s taking family trips to the beach, laughing with loved ones or cherishing the everyday moments that matter most. "I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my husband, mom, stepdad, two sisters, two stepsisters and children who lift me through the hardest days," says Ashley.

"Cancer has changed my path, but not my spirit. My journey is about hope, resilience, love and making every day count!"