Ashley Maxey’s Story

How has breast cancer affected your life?

Ashley Maxey was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 and then metastatic breast cancer in 2021.

She remembers feeling shocked and upset.

“I got the phone call and went right back to work,” she says.

At the time, Ashley was working as a radiation therapist. She had to set her own fears aside and continue treating patients with the exact same thing she had.

 

What keeps you going?

Ashley has kept her eyes on her kids the entire time.

“My job now is to fight to be here for their moments and memories,” she says.

That is what keeps her moving forward.

 

What surprised you about your experience?

Ashley did not expect how hard it would be to lose her breasts.

“I didn’t realize how awful I would feel about myself after losing my breasts,” she says. “It really shocked me how I didn’t know how to love myself anymore.”

What surprised her in a positive way was the people who stayed.

“The thing that surprised me positively was the friends that I learned are with me until the end,” Ashley says.

Their commitment and friendship meant more than they may have realized.

 

What helped most?

Gift cards helped.

“My goodness were those helpful and so well appreciated,” Ashley says.

For someone trying to navigate life with cancer, practical support can make a real difference.

 

What do you want people to know?

Ashley wants people to keep showing up.

“Continue to love us,” she says. “We aren’t contagious, just trying to navigate life with cancer.”

Her advice is to take it one day at a time. Give thanks for each day you are given. Smile when you can. Hug the people you love.