StayWell Guam Inc.

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month, we would like to share an inspiring story of resilience and hope. We had the honor of speaking with Laurie Palomo, a courageous breast cancer survivor, who shared with us her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Laurie has worked with Staywell Insurance for 30 years and is known for her hard work, strong work ethic, and dedication. Her journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of support from your peers, and self-advocacy.

In the year 2020, Laurie was diagnosed with Stage 0 cancer in her right breast. Although she was scared, she knew that she had been diagnosed at an early stage, which made her chances of survival higher than if diagnosed at a later stage. She was determined to fight and win her breast cancer diagnosis and after receiving treatment she went into remission. It would be in 2021, when Laurie would be diagnosed again with Stage 0 Cancer, but in a different area of her right breast. With this second diagnosis Laurie could not help but feel angry and downtrodden. She was aware that the cancer could come back in 3 to 5 years, however, with a re-diagnosis just one year after going into remission she felt it was too soon.

Through both cancer diagnoses, Laurie had support from her husband. She recalls in May of 2020 that she had to attend doctor appointments, procedures, and surgeries alone due to the pandemic protocols at the time. Despite how isolated she felt Laurie knew she was not alone. Her husband was sitting in the parking lot waiting for her. Through every phase of Laurie’s battle with breast cancer she always knew she had her husband there to be her shoulder to cry on, her pillar of strength, and her reminder to never give up. Through all the trials and tribulations Laurie has faced, there is just one message she would like to send to the community, “Despite the slight pain and discomfort, it is important to get your mammogram done. It can save a life.”

The StayWell team would like to thank Laurie Palomo for sharing her incredible journey with us. Laurie’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and the importance of community support. We are grateful for the insight Laurie provided into the realities of facing breast cancer.

For those currently battling this disease or supporting someone who is there are resources out there to get the help and support to fight breast cancer. See the resources below to learn more about fighting and surviving breast cancer. Together, we can create a future where every survivor’s voice is heard and celebrated.