What inspires us to Walk & Run...
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Funda and her mother, Cigdem,
during treatment.
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Nearly five years ago, Funda Dervisoglu's life changed forever when her mother was diagnosed with HER2 breast cancer.
At that time, Funda wasn't involved with HERS. Much has changed since then.
Today, Funda's mother, Cigdem, is nearing her five year survivorship anniversary and Funda is deeply involved with HERS, honoring her mother through her volunteerism and striving to support patients in need.
Funda attends our Walk/Run every year and is our event's top online fundraiser. HERS honored Funda for her work at our
2019 People With Purpose gala
, and she's now a HERS Board Member!
Funda recently reflected on her mother's journey. Her family's story is an example of why we walk, why we run, and why we've continued this tradition for 20 years.
It's an honor to share the Dervisoglu Family's story.
"I cannot tell you the many ways cancer changed my family's life.
I was scared for mom, yet at the same time strong for her and my family. There were so many ups and downs...six rounds of chemo, surgery, radiation, and what felt like non-stop medical visits.Those were difficult months (yet)
our family grew stronger and I had such clarity, purpose, and focus. The things that were not congruent with this focus were simply let go.
Fast forward to today. Mom is a survivor! She is living her best life and recently visited Africa -- a dream trip. I feel so many emotions and feel strongly about giving to those in need.
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People With Purpose Gala Honoree Funda
with her mother, Cigdem. May 2019
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Breast cancer impacts many people daily...chances are you've been impacted as well.
Let's do our part to give back. Let'
s help others in their darkest hours.
It makes a difference. It matters a lot."
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