Michele always felt like breast cancer was not an if, but a when. Both her mother and grandmother are breast cancer survivors. Needless to say, Michele was put in that high risk category and started yearly clinical breast exams in her early 20’s, with a baseline mammogram starting at the age of 35. In between the ages of 35-40 Michele continued with monthly breast self-exams, mammograms and a baseline ultrasound. In June of 2010 Michele turned 40 and she made appointments to all her doctors (annual mammogram, dermatologist and ophthalmologist visits, etc.) and she received a thumbs up on all. Fast forward to April/ May 2011 – Michele was doing a breast self exam and felt a lump. Diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer, in addition to being a BRCA 1 gene carrier, her treatment included a bilateral mastectomy, 5 months of chemotherapy and Herceptin. She is dedicated to inspiring others and promoting the Rivkin EDU mission of early detection, prevention and self-advocacy. Michele is the Education Program Coordinator for the Rivkin Center and continues to share her story.