Kylie’s cancer journey began in August 2024 when she noticed a lump on her breast, near her underarm. Because of her history with a possible lupus diagnosis during pregnancy with her youngest daughter, “I initially thought it was just part of that journey,” she said.

Fortunately, she already had an annual physical scheduled for the following month and was quickly referred to the Aultman Breast Care Center, where she underwent a mammogram and ultrasound on the same day with biopsies shortly after. That swift response accelerated the diagnosis and set her treatment plan into motion.

Later that week, Kylie logged into her patient portal. She paused before opening her results. “I remember praying before I clicked: ‘God, please make this mountain moveable,’” she said.

There, in the quiet, she read the diagnosis: Stage 3B triple-negative breast cancer.

Rather than fall apart, Kylie turned inward, drawing strength from her faith. Before she even told her husband, she crossed the street to see her neighbor, who opened the door and embraced her – which Kylie said gave her the quiet strength she needed.

Around that same time, Kylie’s family had been planning a trip to Florida, which she describes as their happy place. But a series of weather-related setbacks led them to cancel. At first, the change was disappointing. But now, Kylie sees it as a divine redirection. “I see this as another sign of God's care, keeping me home, where I needed to be, to begin treatment,” she said.

She was referred to two oncologists: Dr. Sabrina Shilad with the Aultman Breast Care Center and Dr. Sunitha Vemulapalli, oncologist at the Aultman Cancer Center. “Dr. Shilad’s warm and caring demeanor balances Dr. Vemulapalli’s direct and determined approach,” she said. “I’m thankful for how they work together, always focused on what’s best for me.”

Kylie’s treatment began in November 2024, with weekly visits to the Cancer Center. By April 2025, Kylie completed her second chemotherapy regimen, with surgery scheduled for June.

One major milestone came when she overcame a deep fear: getting a port installed after her initial port failed. At first, the thought terrified her. But her physician assistant in interventional radiology met her week after week, gently easing her worries. Through their conversations, Kylie came to see the benefits of the port, not as something to fear, but as a blessing – a tool to make her journey more bearable.

Throughout it all, Kylie has seen God’s hand guiding her. “My faith isn’t just part of my journey – it’s the foundation,” she said. She credits her church family at Liberty Baptist Church, her neighbors, friends and even her mechanic who have shown up in ways that remind her she’s never walking alone.

She is endlessly grateful for the nurses at the Aultman Cancer Center, especially Charity Velazquez and Erin M. Bolon, both chemotherapy nurses, whom she credits with creating a space where she felt seen and safe.

Most of all, Kylie cherishes her family: her husband, Scott, her daughters and her parents. Mondays have become sacred “date days” for her and Scott: they go to treatment, hold hands, and watch old episodes of “Friends,” finding comfort and humor in the middle of uncertainty.

Kylie’s battle isn’t over. But even in the hardest moments, she continues to see the presence of God – in the timing, the people and the unexpected blessings. Her message to others facing cancer is clear and heartfelt: “Trust your faith, trust your team and lean on your people.”