This month we’ve been inspired hearing from SkyWest employees about their experiences with cancer in all its forms. This includes Holly K., Chelsea D., Melani E., and Tracy P., who have each faced the challenge of a breast cancer diagnosis. Though their cancer journeys are unique, they are all powerful examples of hope and unwavering optimism.

Holly K. – Technical Publications Writer at HDQ

In October 2023, Holly noticed a small lump, right up against her chest wall that could have easily been mistaken as part of her left pectoral muscle.

“I am a runner,” Holly explained “I’m very lean and toned so I didn’t think much about it.”

Holly went about her life as normal. In April of this year, when it became clear that the spot had grown into a definite lump, she knew she needed to look into the situation more. She received her first mammogram and went in for a biopsy that later came back positive for Multicentric Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer.

In June 2024, Holly began her journey to recovery. 

She has had four rounds of chemo and discovered she was allergic to the prescribed nausea drug. She then started a new chemo drug for 12 weekly treatments but also had allergic reactions. For the next round, Holly plans to try a different drug in hopes of a better response.

“Besides all the bumps in the road I’ve dealt with so far, I’m grateful for the ability I’ve had to work through most of the treatment, as well as to continue running,” Holly said. “I have radiation still to look forward to, as well as immunotherapy before I can say I’m the fourth breast cancer survivor in the MX Department at HDQ.”

Holly finds ways to enjoy life during treatment by continuing to pursue her passions. She has kept up with her fitness and stays active as a way to help eliminate some of the effects from chemo.

When she started losing her hair, Holly and her husband Charles decided to shave their heads together. Since then, Holly has had a lot of fun dressing up in different wigs to wear for work. She is grateful to her colleagues for providing such an incredible support system during this time.

“I want to thank Lora O., Stephanie B., and Ginny T., who have battled and beat this cancer and been a light to help me through my own journey,” Holly said. “I’m also so grateful for my department and others at SkyWest who continue to show their love and support as I beat this thing.”

Chelsea D. – Flight Attendant based in IAH

Shortly after being hired on at SkyWest, Chelsea received a life changing diagnosis. 

“I am currently battling metastatic breast cancer with significant metastases of leptomeningeal disease in both my brain and spine.” Chelsea said. 

She explains that there is a significant lack of understanding and funding for this type of metastases in breast cancer patients because it is a very rare occurrence, and she hopes to bring more awareness to it by sharing her experience.

“I am fighting for my life and I am eternally grateful for SkyWest’s support,” Chelsea said. Every day, Chelsea counts her blessings and she extends her gratitude to her friends and colleagues who have rallied around her while she continues to battle her disease. Through it all, Chelsea has exemplified true grit and perseverance. She is determined to stay positive and describes herself as a “tenacious warrior.”

“I will see victory through this,” Chelsea exclaims. “Until then, fly high my friends, and keep fighting for me too!”

Melani E. – Flight Attendant based in AUS

Melani’s journey with breast cancer began in May 2021. She went in for her annual checkup and discovered a small mass, and immediately had markers placed for a biopsy.

While she was on a trip waiting to swap planes, her doctor called to confirm her test results were positive and that she would need to schedule appointments with the cancer team. Refusing to let her diagnosis get her down, she continued to cheerfully carry on.

Throughout the treatment process Melani kept up her positive attitude and was determined to live by the motto, “Let faith be bigger than your fear.”

“I can’t control the cancer or all the ‘what ifs,'” Melani said. “The whole ordeal was not what I ever expected to happen to me; I’ve always taken care of myself and tried to stay as healthy as I can.”

Melani’s double mastectomy reconstruction surgery was a success and her recovery went smoothly. She has officially been cancer free for two years now.

“I feel so glad to have found my breast cancer early on,” Melani said. “I always spread the word to young flight attendants I fly with to get their annual breast screening and not to take it lightly.”

Tracy P. – Flight Attendant based in ORD

Tracy is approaching three years of being cancer free. Though her valiant battle with breast cancer took a toll, she believes that she has come out the other side stronger than ever. 

“Being diagnosed with breast cancer took so much from me,” Tracy recalled. “Cancer robbed me of my confidence, looks, and energy. But it also gave me the strength, courage, and resilience to fight.”

Tracy has had to learn to adjust to many physical and emotional changes, both during and after cancer treatments. One of the most challenging aspects of Tracy’s cancer journey has been the impact on her appearance. She struggled with accepting the person she saw reflected in the mirror, but, over time, she conquered that as well.

“I realized that the loss of hair and my scars do not define me as a person,” Tracy said. “But they are a powerful symbol of my survival.”

Tracy has a deep sense of gratitude for life and strives to fill each day with purpose and intention. She surrounds herself with family and friends that bring her joy, and she looks forward to the future.

“After going through bad things, I really appreciate all the good,” Tracy said. “Every day, my life becomes more precious and filled with purpose.”

Thank you, Holly, Chelsea, Melani, and Tracy, for sharing your stories with us. We are inspired by your strength and we invite everyone to join in the fight against cancer by ensuring that you and your loved ones receive regular screenings. You can also visit United Healthcare’s preventive care checklist tool to see what exams you might expect at your next checkup.

If you haven’t already, be sure to read other stories that have been shared this month, including our SBN maintenance team’s support for women battling cancer within their community.