Allison Poirier’s Story

How has cancer affected your life?

Cancer has shaped Allison Poirier's life in ways she never could have imagined.

She lost both of her parents to cancer, as well as her grandmother and cousin. But nearly two years ago, her own life was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with Stage 3C invasive ductal carcinoma.

Since then, Allison has undergone chemotherapy, radiation, and five surgeries.

“I was a Division 1 athlete at Boston College, modeled, worked as a trader in finance, am a real estate agent for 23 years, and have 4 amazing children,” Allison shares. “I lost both of my parents to cancer, got divorced, but nothing has rocked my world like having cancer myself has.”

It has been the hardest and scariest experience of her life. And even now, Allison is still navigating the effects of her diagnosis.

 

How has breast cancer changed your perspective?

For Allison, cancer has brought an entirely new outlook on life.

“It has made me realize how precious life is and to not sweat the small stuff,” she says. “It has shown me what truly matters in life and how incredibly lucky I am to have the family I have."

She knows it may sound surprising, but Allison has found herself feeling grateful for the perspective she has gained.

“Never would I ever think I would say grateful and cancer in the same sentence, but that is how I feel.”

That gratitude does not diminish how difficult the experience has been.

“I’m not diminishing how hard it is to have cancer. It’s the hardest and scariest experience I have ever had to go through.”

But Allison believes that maintaining a positive mindset has helped her through the most difficult moments.

She has felt an incredible amount of love from her community, which has reminded her of how fortunate she is to have so many people beside her.

 

What has this experience taught your children?

Allison is a mother of four, and one of the most meaningful parts of her experience has been what she hopes her children have learned from it.

“I’ve shown my children that you can’t always control the negative things that happen to you, but you can control your reaction.”

As a family, they have learned to face difficult moments together.

Allison hopes her children carry that lesson with them throughout their lives.

“As a family, we know that we can get through anything together, and we now look at the good in every situation.”

 

What advice would you give someone going through cancer?

Allison wants to help others who are earlier in their cancer experience.

“I want to help others who are further back in their cancer battles get through the storm, see the good in their cancer journey and keep them fighting.”

She knows how overwhelming a diagnosis can be, and she wants people to know they do not have to face it alone.

Allison is a big believer that things happen for a reason, even when that reason is difficult to understand.

“You can’t question the reason, but instead you have to strap your seatbelt on, get ready for the ride and fight.”

Her advice is to keep looking for the good, even when life feels completely different from what you had planned.

“Stay positive, keep your head up and appreciate all of the good in your life.”

 

What does walking with Runway mean to you?

“I’m honored to be a part of such a special event,” she shares.

After everything she has been through, Allison looks forward to sharing her story with others who understand what it means to navigate breast cancer.

She hopes that by being open about her experience, she can help someone else feel less alone.

We cannot think of a more fitting way to celebrate than by welcoming Allison to the stage for the first time, surrounded by the Runway community and the people who have supported her along the way.

And this year, the Runway Show falls on an especially meaningful day for Allison: her birthday!

We can't wait to celebrate her on October 29th!