Meet the Models: Rebecca Whitehead

When Rebecca was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 30 years old, she wasn’t expecting it. She had no family history. No warning signs. Just a lingering worry that became all too real.

“The week between my biopsy and the results was the slowest and most agonizing week of my life. The ‘what ifs’ were overwhelming—I couldn’t focus, I just cried.”

When the call finally came, it didn’t come gently.

“I got a voicemail from the doctor saying they were setting me up with a surgeon. When I called back to ask why, the nurse said, ‘Did nobody tell you?’ Then she said, ‘Your breast cancer—I mean—you have breast cancer.’”

As if that weren’t enough, cancer was also found in her lymph node.

What followed was a complete life overhaul. Rebecca packed up her life in Hawaii and moved 5,000 miles back to New Hampshire to be closer to family and care. She quickly assembled a new medical team and began treatment.

Throughout chemotherapy, Rebecca tried to bring comfort and connection to the experience—inviting a different friend or family member to accompany her to each infusion appointment.

“It became a way to catch up with people I didn’t see all the time. I made the day as relaxing as I could—chair massages, reiki, snacks, anything the center offered, I said yes to.”

Still, cancer made its presence known in unexpected ways. During her second course of chemo, she experienced an anaphylactic reaction—an allergic response to one of the medication’s binding agents. The nursing team was prepared, but for Rebecca, it was terrifying.

“Even though it wasn’t uncommon, it was incredibly jarring. You don’t forget a moment like that.”

Rebecca is clear about one thing: survivorship isn’t always visible.

“You see the hair come back, the scars fade—but there are long-lasting effects, silent struggles. Not all of it is on the surface. Be gentle. Be understanding. Communicate.”

One moment that reminded her just how loved she was came shortly after her move home.

“Three of my best friends showed up from New York, completely surprising me. It meant everything.”

Her advice to others going through cancer is equal parts empowering and practical:

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Advocate for yourself. Whether it’s about treatment, insurance, or just needing clarity—speak up. This is your body. This is your life.”

Rebecca’s story is one of quiet power—the kind that doesn’t always announce itself, but makes a lasting impact. At Runway for Recovery, we celebrate her honesty, her adaptability, and her reminder that healing doesn’t end when the treatment does. It continues, often in the places no one can see.