This October Is Different

By: Michelle Neyrey

For many, October is a time of pink ribbons, fundraisers, and reflection. But for Michelle Neyrey, this October feels entirely different. It is her first Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a survivor and her story is one of faith, humility, and gratitude.

From the first phone call that changed everything to the lessons she continues to carry forward, Michelle’s journey reminds us that strength is not about standing alone. It is about learning when to lean, when to trust, and when to simply take the next step in grace.

A Month That Feels Different

This October feels unlike any other. It is different. It is the first October since I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

I have always supported Breast Cancer Awareness Month, especially after my mother’s diagnosis at 48. I knew there was a chance it could happen to me, but as the years went by, that thought faded into the background.

Early Vigilance

After my mother’s diagnosis, I became faithful about getting my mammograms. In my twenties, doctors would often tell me my breast tissue was too dense for scans to show much, but I kept going. Over the years, I often needed extra ultrasounds, just to be safe.

So, when another follow-up was ordered in the summer of 2025, it didn’t raise alarm.

The Call That Changed Everything

Then, on August 6th, while setting up a classroom for a district presentation, I got the call.

“Ms. Neyrey, this is the doctor’s office. Do you have time to talk? You might want to sit down.”

I knew what those words meant.

I tried to listen, focus, and take in what was being said, but that was easier said than done. My head was swirling. Within thirty minutes, MD Anderson called with more information, appointment dates, insurance details, and next steps. Everything felt like a blur.

Afterward, I stood in that classroom trying to continue my task, but reality hit me. I remember walking to my car, feeling like my world had been turned upside down. When I finally sat down, I began searching online for worst-case scenarios until I broke down and cried.

Finding Strength in Care

Looking back, I am so grateful for how quickly I was connected with MD Anderson. Their team, my husband, and my family became my foundation through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Even now, I continue follow-up visits. The care and expertise at MD Anderson truly saved my life.

Their efficiency and compassion guided me through every step. I was blessed with expert doctors, caring nurses, and the unwavering support of my husband and family.

Lessons in Gratitude

Going through cancer is something no one ever expects. But understanding your diagnosis and focusing on what can be done makes all the difference.

My journey was not easy, but I am thankful. It could have been so much worse. I met so many others during treatment, people in elevators, waiting rooms, and hallways, each fighting their own battle. I had four rounds of chemotherapy over several months, while others had far more extensive treatments.

Their strength humbled me and helped me appreciate every blessing in my own path. Even on the hardest days, I reminded myself to be thankful.

Learning to Ask for Help

One of the biggest lessons I have learned is how to ask for help. I have always prided myself on being independent, but cancer, and later, two knee replacement surgeries, taught me humility.

I learned that asking for help does not make you weak. It makes you wise enough to know when you need support. My husband has been my rock, steady, patient, and constant. It is wisdom: knowing when to lean on others and when to stand strong.

Anchored by Faith

Through it all, my faith anchored me. There were many prayers, many questions, and many moments of deep peace knowing that God had a plan even when I did not understand it.

This experience reminded me that, in both life and work, success depends on having the right team — a team that is strong, knowledgeable, compassionate, and committed. Whether it is doctors, nurses, colleagues, or family, everyone plays a part.

Asking questions, seeking understanding, and trusting the process are essential, because no journey, especially one like this, can be faced alone.

Walking Together

Cancer has taught me that everyone’s story is different. Treatments, reactions, and emotions vary. But with faith, support, and perseverance, healing becomes more than physical. It becomes a lesson in grace, gratitude, and strength.

This October, I wear pink not just for awareness, but for gratitude, faith, and the incredible strength that comes from hope.

At Influential Women, we believe that women like Michelle show us the true meaning of resilience. Her story reminds us that faith and gratitude can coexist with fear, and that community turns endurance into healing.

To every woman walking through her own journey this October, you are not alone. Your story, your courage, and your faith are powerful beyond measure.

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