Breast cancer doesn’t always announce itself with a lump. Sometimes the signs are less obvious: persistent pain, a change that doesn’t feel right, or an inner nudge to ask for another test. In this Breast Cancer Awareness Month conversation, Rare Medium host Deb Snyder and her longtime friend Kristin LaPlante share their personal experiences with breast cancer—and why listening to your body and speaking up for yourself matter. Kristin was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012. Years later, what she thought might be sciatica became a far more serious concern. After months of pain and difficulty walking, an X-ray revealed that her cancer had returned and spread to her bones. Kristin describes the uncertainty of waiting for answers, the moment she learned the diagnosis, and the determination that helped her move forward with treatment. A former gymnast and lifelong athlete, Kristin shares how she worked her way from needing a cane to walking several miles. She talks about the role of radiation, medication, exercise, nutrition, and mental imagery in her journey, and how she found purpose in supporting others through breast cancer advocacy and Maine’s Runway for Hope. Deb also opens up about her own diagnosis after an abnormal 3D mammogram. When a biopsy was presented as something she could wait on, she chose to push for it—and shares how that decision led to her diagnosis and treatment. Together, Deb and Kristin reflect on their family histories, the challenges of navigating medical care, and how a diagnosis can reshape priorities, relationships, and the way you value your own health. In this episode, they discuss: What it can mean to trust your instincts and ask for further evaluation, including the importance of recommended screening and follow-up with your healthcare teamKristin’s path through breast cancer treatment, recovery, and living with stable diseaseThe strength they found in athletic discipline, family, friendship, and communityWhy advocacy includes making time for your health—even when life is busy or fear makes it tempting to waitHonest and heartfelt, this conversation is about more than awareness: it’s about paying attention, finding support, and having the courage to keep asking questions. Kristin LaPlante is a breast cancer survivor and advocate. After an initial diagnosis in 2012, she faced a metastatic recurrence years later, which spread to her bones. She shares her experience to encourage others to listen to their bodies, advocate for the care and testing they need, and find support through difficult seasons. An athlete throughout her life, Kristin credits movement, mental strength, and the support of her community as meaningful parts of her journey. She participates in Maine’s Runway for Hope and Warrior Chics at runway events in Arizona. Her goal is to help create a powerful community, raise awareness and increase the circle of support for breast cancer patients and research. Kristin is a sales and service professional who lives and works in New England. She is incredibly grateful for her family and friends who have supported her and contributed to her strength along her journey. Kristin is inspired by Dr. Dawn Mussallem and encourages others to learn more about her work at https://lifestylemedicine.org/survived-stage-4-cancer-and-a-heart-transplant/ Learn more about Rare Medium with Deb Snyder at: http://www.debsnyder.com and http://www.heartglow.org
