Celebrating Strength and Resilience: Tess Kenney’s Breast Cancer Journey

As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to bring you an inspiring story of strength, hope, and the incredible power of community. Today, we’re sharing the journey of Tess Kenney, the Community Relations Manager at Touching Hearts at Home of Syracuse. Tess’s story is one of courage, resilience, and support from her loved ones and community.

Discovering the Unexpected

In March 1997, Tess Kenney’s life took an unexpected turn. At just 32 years old, with a toddler and an infant, Tess performed her first self-examination and discovered a lump. Despite never having done a self-exam before, she felt compelled to check. This small act of self-care turned out to be life-saving. After seeking medical attention, Tess was diagnosed with stage 3B breast cancer. The cancer was aggressive and had already progressed significantly.

The Battle Begins

Tess’s formal diagnosis came on April 1, 1997. The tumor was the size of a half dollar, and immediate action was necessary. Tess underwent a lumpectomy and was quickly enrolled in a bone marrow study due to her young age. She received three rounds of aggressive chemotherapy, and in October 1997, her white blood cell count was brought to zero. The medical team then administered another round of chemotherapy and a cleaned-up bone marrow transplant from the clinical trial.

In January 1998, Tess faced a mastectomy on one side. Although advised to have a double mastectomy, she decided against it. By March 1998, she endured seven weeks of daily radiation. Her intensive treatment journey concluded precisely one year after her diagnosis.

A Network of Support

Throughout her treatment, Tess leaned heavily on her coworkers, who became an invaluable support system. They organized fundraisers, participated in walks, and even shaved their heads in solidarity when Tess began losing her hair. Her daycare provider played a crucial role in maintaining normalcy for her children, ensuring they were well cared for during such a turbulent time.

Organizations like the Komen Foundation and the American Cancer Society provided additional support. These groups connected Tess with other young survivors, offering a sense of community and understanding that was vital during her battle. Tess’s husband stood by her side as her rock, attending appointments and providing emotional support. She emphasizes the importance of having someone present at medical appointments to help absorb and process information.

Living for Tomorrow

Tess’s experience with breast cancer profoundly impacted her outlook on life and her role at Touching Hearts at Home. She believes in the power of listening and creating a safe space for clients and their families. Tess’s journey has taught her to value every story and ensure everyone feels heard and seen.

Now, 27 years cancer-free, Tess continues to inspire others with her story. Her youngest son, who was just a baby during her battle, grew up to become a doctor, inspired by his mother’s resilience and strength.

Tess’s Tips for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

To honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Tess shares these heartfelt tips:

1. Be Present for Those Battling Cancer: Visit them, watch a movie together, or take a walk. Your presence means more than you can imagine.
2. Celebrate Your Birthday: You are important and deserve to be celebrated. Use your birthday month as a reminder to take care of yourself, including getting a breast examination.
3. Accept Help: Accepting help can be challenging, especially from those you’re not close to. Accepting help doesn’t mean you’re weak; it’s okay to lean on others.
4. Express Gratitude: Tell those close to you that you appreciate them. Share your love and gratitude for all they bring to your life.

Every breast cancer journey is unique, but Tess Kenney’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and love. We celebrate Tess and her spark. Let her story remind us all of the importance of routine checks, the strength within us, and the incredible support that surrounds us.

Stay strong, stay hopeful, and remember that you are never alone in this journey. Together, we can touch hearts and make a difference.