Marquita Goodluck is a 2022 Give Back Grant recipient. We were honored to welcome her to our team as our Give Back Grant Program Manager this year! The 2023 Give Back Grant cycle will begin in August.

1.) If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
If I could be an animal, I would be a cheetah. Cheetahs are undoubtedly one of the most stunning creatures on earth. Their striking beauty is accentuated by their impressive speed, grace, and agility. As a child, I was always fascinated by these big cats, and I still am. Their spotted coat not only adds to their beauty but also serves as a clever camouflage tool. Cheetahs embody both strength and elegance in their movements, making them a truly remarkable animal. Their ability to run at incredibly high speeds and chase down prey with ease is something to be admired. 

2.) When were you diagnosed and how old were you?
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017. I was 35 years old.

3.) How did you find out you had breast cancer?
I found out that I had breast cancer by doing a self-exam. I felt a smooth, firm, unmovable lump on my left breast. The lump was located on the bottom left area of my breast. The lump started from my breast but kind of extended under my left arm.  Afterwards, I conducted a self-exam several times and confirmed that I was actually feeling a change in my breast. I immediately was concerned. I knew that I needed to make an appointment to see my gynecologist. Being afraid of the possibility of breast cancer, I didn’t set an appointment until two months later. Once I made the appointment, everything moved very quickly. My gynecologist confirmed what I was feeling and scheduled me to be seen at a hospital. After a day of appointments, the radiologist called me the next day and told me that I had stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma.

4.) Who was the first person you told about your illness?
My husband was the first person I told about my diagnosis. Being a very optimistic person, he was in complete disbelief. We both thought that it would just be a benign cyst. Never did we ever think that I would have cancer.

5.) Tell us something about yourself that people probably don’t know.
Most people would not know that I love to watch cartoons. I have always loved to watch cartoons throughout my life. Way before I became a parent, I found joy in watching certain cartoons. Once I was diagnosed, I just wanted to be happy and to only see things that made me happy. I was very mindful of keeping my mind positive. In order to do this, I watched cartoons. It allowed me to tune out any negativity or fear.

6.) After your treatment, what do you want to spend more time on?
After treatment, I wanted to spend more time living in the moment and worrying less. I wanted to spend less time being cautious and always worrying about the future. Prior to diagnosis, I was someone who always was concerned about preparing for the future. So after treatment, I made a vow to say yes more and to be more adventurous. 

7.) What advice would you give to someone recently diagnosed?
Breathe and take your time. A diagnosis can be heavy and scary. Doctors will attempt to rush you to make quick decisions. Although it’s important to make these decisions as fast as you can, never be afraid to clear your mind, weigh all your options, get a second opinion, and be sure that whatever decision you make, is one you can live with. It’s your life and your journey.

8.) What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
At times, life can and will get harder than you can ever imagine. Sometimes it may feel unbearable. Everything will not go as planned. Life will bring many unexpected twists and turns. However, don’t be afraid to live, but always be ready to adjust. It will get better. 

9.) What has been the toughest challenge you’ve faced?
Fighting breast cancer while also being a mother. Being diagnosed with breast cancer is one thing, but fighting this disease while being a mother of 3 has been the hardest challenge for me. Feeling the pressure to win and survive is heightened when you are a mother. Being a mother means you have to attempt to shield your children from the trauma this disease brings while beating the disease, as well as living a normal life. It’s a constant struggle.

10.) What’s something you learned about yourself, going through your breast cancer experience?
I learned that even in the midst of tragedy, you can find purpose. Your purpose will always find you.

11.) When do you laugh the most?
I laugh the most when I am with my husband. My husband, who is my college sweetheart, has always been able to help me forget if I am sad or worried. In this journey, we have both learned how to always be in search of happiness and to maintain it anyway we can.

12.) If you could go back in time to a particular moment, what would it be?
 I most definitely would go back to my life before breast cancer. It was a great feeling to not always worry about your health. There has been so much loss and heartbreak. Although I like who I have become through this journey, I still miss my life before.

13.) If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why?
If I could travel anywhere, I would go to Egypt. Egypt is a fascinating place with a rich history. I would love to experience Egypt up close.

14.) What did it mean to you to receive the Give Back Grant?
As a breast cancer survivor, the Give Back Grant proved to be a lifeline for me. It enabled me to prioritize self-care by covering my medical bills and providing a glimmer of hope during a challenging time. The grant not only acknowledged the struggles of survival but also provided a sense of faith that there are people and organizations willing to assist survivors. It reminded me that even after surviving, support is still available. Overall, the Give Back Grant was a crucial resource that made me feel seen, heard, and empowered.

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