Faces of a Warrior: Zoraida Chamizo

Age: 74
Profession: Finance/Accounting
Type of Breast Cancer: Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Number of Years as a Survivor: 26 years
Relationship to Susan G. Komen: Race participant

When I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ 26 years ago, I was frightened. In those times, cancer wasn’t discussed openly, and my initial thought was the possibility of dying. Yet, I knew that no matter what I endured, I had to keep fighting for my family.

I discovered a lump in my breast by self-examination, and quickly made an appointment with my doctor. I had a mammogram, sonogram, and biopsy performed on same day. Within 2 days I was given the diagnosis of breast cancer. I sought out a second opinion, which only confirmed the diagnosis I didn’t want to hear. I opted to have a total mastectomy with removal of lymph nodes. During the months of treatment, I had difficulty dealing with the changes in my body and struggled with the scars on my body, but I focused on fighting cancer.

Throughout my treatment and recovery, I continued to work and pursued a normal life. I knew that no matter what, I wanted to live for my children. At the time of my diagnosis, my youngest daughter was still in high school, and I am proud to have been able to see both my daughters bloom into adulthood.  My goal was to keep living for them, and I know that without their support I would not have been able to do it.

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About the Faces of a Warrior Campaign

Last year, to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Race for the Cure®, Susan G. Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale teamed with 101.5 LITE FM to launch the Faces of a Warrior campaign. 

To mark the 21st Annual Race for the Cure®, Komen is spotlighting 21 survivors to represent each year the Race has run. These individuals are sharing their stories of strength and resilience -- not just of surviving breast cancer, but thriving in spite of it.

Read the stories of more Warriors here

For more information on the Faces of a Warrior campaign -- and other ways you can get involved in the Race for the Cure® -- please email [email protected] or call 954-909-0454