Meet the Models: Laura Bosse

Meet the Models: Laura’s Story – Living Like She’s Going to Live

When Laura was first diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ) in 2021, she felt fortunate to have caught it early. Taking an aggressive approach, she opted for a bilateral mastectomy, believing it would eliminate the cancer for good. But two years later, in 2023, her world shifted in a devastating direction: she was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer.

“Last year, I said that breast cancer impacted my life in every possible way and completely changed my trajectory,” Laura reflects. “I remember filling out the registration form while sitting in the waiting room at MGH, about to begin another weekly chemo session.”

From Devastation to Determination

That turning point marked the beginning of a grueling journey. Laura endured 26 chemotherapy treatments, flanked by moments of hope and exhaustion, isolation and grace.

“When I was diagnosed again, it felt like the ground fell out from beneath me. I had done everything right. And still—it came back.”

But even in the face of recurrence, Laura never gave up. Instead, she surrounded herself with community, leaned into vulnerability, and took each day as it came.

The Power of Community

“Many dear friends helped me through chemotherapy. I only attended two sessions alone.”

Meals were dropped off three times a week for six months—many from people she didn’t even know. This kindness offered nourishment not just for her body, but for her spirit.

“The generosity of my community gave me hope and inspired me to be strong.”

Still, Laura notes that the hardest part wasn’t the treatment—it was the loneliness.

“I was surprised by how alone I felt. People were generous, but I spent a lot of time by myself. I think they thought I needed rest, but what I really needed was company.”

Her story is a reminder that the most meaningful gift isn’t always practical—it’s presence.

Reclaiming Life: A New Chapter

Today, Laura is over a year out from chemotherapy. She still receives monthly immunotherapy treatments, but cancer no longer rules her world.

“My focus now is on advancing my career, improving the circumstances for myself and my children, and—most importantly—living like I’m going to live.”

It’s a powerful mantra. A shift from survival to revival.

Advice to Others

Laura offers clear, heartfelt advice to those beginning their own breast cancer journey:

• Be your own advocate. Get multiple opinions. Make sure you trust your team and treatment plan.

• Let people help you. They want to show up for you. Let them.

• Speak up. Don’t suffer in silence if what you really need is someone to sit with you.

“It’s terrifying to hear the word ‘cancer,’ and everyone reacts differently. Just be there. However you can.”

Why She Walks

Laura walks the runway this year not just as a survivor, but as a woman redefining her life.

“While breast cancer is always present, it’s not my primary focus anymore. That feels huge.”

She walks to celebrate one full year post-chemo. She walks to honor her children, her friends, her community—and herself.

She walks because she's choosing to live boldly, joyfully, and purposefully.

“This year is special. I'm not just surviving. I'm living.”