Sisters’ Journey Survivor of the Month – Fatima Ennis

Some moments test us. Others transform us. Breast cancer did both for me.

I am here today not just as a survivor, but also as a woman forever changed – refined by pain yet empowered by purpose. Breast cancer did not claim me. It challenged me, it broke me open, and through that breaking, I found strength I never knew I had.

Before I was diagnosed, something felt off. I was plagued by relentless headaches, nosebleeds, brain fog, and a deep, unshakable exhaustion – physically, emotionally and spiritually. I’d go entire days without sleep.

Despite hospital admission and exhaustive testing, doctors couldn’t find a clear cause. My body was screaming for attention, but no one could decipher the message. My primary care provider decided to go back to the basics – routine exams including a mammogram. What started as a checklist turned into a turning point.

In March 2021, I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in situ with multiple masses, necrosis, DCIS, Grade 3, ER positive, HER2 negative. My oncotype score was 42. Stage II breast cancer. It was a moment that stopped time. I had no family history, no clear warning signs. And yet, there it was.

Surgery, chemo, radiation – all followed quickly. I underwent a bilateral mastectomy with DIEP flap reconstruction. Complications mounted, and after further surgeries and overwhelming regret, I ultimately had the implants removed. Five of six lymph nodes tested positive for cancer.

I was devastated – not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. I felt vulnerable, traumatized, incomplete.

There were times when depression clouded my days. I questioned my worth. I grieved the loss of my breasts, not just physically, but symbolically. I had tried to be proactive, to stay ahead of the disease, but still felt like I had missed something vital, like my body had been trying to tell me what the tests couldn’t.

Recovery was slow – and still is. Physical therapy became part of my life, especially to manage the painful edema and neuropathy that has lingered for years. I’m still on hormone therapy with no clear end in sight.

And yet each day I am free of cancer, I feel a little more whole, a little more me.

What cancer stole from me also gave perspective. It reminded me that life isn’t just about the years we live, but the love we give and receive. I was never truly alone. My friends and family showed up in ways I never expected. But in many moments, I fought this battle internally. And I learned that transformation doesn’t always happen with fanfare. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet decision to keep going.

Breast cancer didn’t control me. It didn’t define me. But it did reshape me, literally.

Today, I lead my life with intention because I understand that the legacy we leave is the life we lead. I may carry scars, but I also carry strength. I may still battle pain, but I walk in peace knowing I am free of cancer. And that freedom? It’s intoxicating.

I am healing. I am whole. I am here.

Save the Date!

Sisters’ Journey 28^th Annual Pink Tea

October 24, 2026

Mohegan Sun 1pm – 5pm