We recently connected with Heather Thum and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather, thanks for joining us today. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.

I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma and invasive ductal carcinoma in February 2022. I was also found to be HER2-positive, which meant that my cancer was estrogen-driven. My journey began when I found a small pea-sized lump and immediately took action and called my doctor. I went for a mammogram, ultrasound and had to have biopsies done. When I got the results, it turned my life upside down. Going through this journey was a rollercoaster of emotions. After many sleepless nights I decided to change my mindset and made it positive, which led me to start #Hats4Heather on social media. I asked people to support me in my journey by sending silly hats, and the outpour of love was immense. Family, friends, and even strangers sent me hats, which I wore to treatments and shared in uplifting videos. This experience inspired me to become a breast cancer advocate, giving me a new purpose and showing me that I can make a difference in others’ lives.

At first, I felt overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what the future would hold. But as I began to process everything, I realized that I had a choice: I could let the diagnosis define me, or I could face it head-on with strength and determination. I chose to fight with resilience and courage, leaning on my loved ones for support and finding strength in their unwavering presence.

Throughout my treatment, there were moments that tested me—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Yet, there were also small victories that kept me going, like smile from a nurse, a shared laugh with a fellow patient, or even just waking up on a difficult day and choosing to make it better by posting a uplifting video of my experiences.

Being HER2-positive also meant that I benefited from advancements in medicine and technology, like targeted therapies, which gave me hope and a path forward. It made me realize just how crucial it is to raise awareness and advocate for continued research and funding for breast cancer treatments, especially as the disease increasingly affects younger individuals.

Now, as a survivor, I feel a deep sense of responsibility and purpose. My experience has shaped me into a passionate advocate for the breast cancer community. Sharing my story is not just about recounting what I went through; it’s about inspiring others, raising awareness, and encouraging early detection. The science is evolving, and people are being diagnosed earlier, which is saving lives. But there’s still so much work to be done, and I want to be a part of that change.

Heather, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m extremely excited to share my story with the world. Through my rhyming children’s book about a mama bear and a baby bear, I’m focusing on the positive sides of navigating cancer treatment. Inspired by my experiences with my daughter, I hope my book brings hope and support to families facing similar challenges. In addition, I’m actively involved with the American Cancer Society, serving on the committee for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Parsippany, New Jersey. I also received the Power of Hope Award from the American Cancer Society, which honors someone who presents in the cancer community as an advocate and embodies spirit, heart, and hope for others. I’ve attended breast cancer events at my doctors’ invitations and modeled for a non-profit that offers free rock climbing and retreats for women. I aim to continue inspiring others through public speaking and possibly have the opportunity to talk to young women, in schools about early detection for breast cancer

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Facing my cancer diagnosis was a life-altering moment that tested my resilience. Instead of succumbing to fear, I chose to channel positivity by starting #HatsForHeather, which turned into a heartwarming campaign of support. The love I received fueled my advocacy, transforming a personal battle into a mission of hope. This journey has deeply strengthened my resilience, shaping me into someone who faces challenges head-on while inspiring others to do the same

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

My cancer journey taught me to let go of needing to be in control. Treatments are never certain, and unexpected issues like infections or hospital visits arise. I learned resilience means adapting to uncertainty and finding strength amidst the unknown.”

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Hats4heather
• Other: Tik Tok

  #Hats4heather