The first battle
Ysabel was twenty-five years old, newly married and the mother of a precious one-year-old son when she found a lump during a breast self-examination in November 1995.
Within seventy-two hours she went from her doctor’s office to a biopsy and then surgery. The diagnosis was Stage 3 invasive carcinoma. Because the cancer was already advanced, treatment was aggressive: eleven months of chemotherapy and radiation that tested both her body and spirit.
On one especially difficult day, exhausted and ready to give up, Ysabel’s mother brought her young son to her and reminded her, “This is what you are fighting for.” Ysabel kept going.
Turning survival into service
After entering remission, Ysabel volunteered with Athletes for Education, a nonprofit organization, and created Ysabel’s Pink Angels. What began as a dream to support cancer patients grew into community work throughout San Diego.
Her service included literacy programs, holiday gatherings, turkey and toy giveaways, hospital visits with athletes and celebrities, sports camps, movie nights, and support for families in recovery programs. The lesson was lasting: a loving presence on someone’s hardest day can change a life.
The third diagnosis
After being diagnosed with breast cancer for the third time, I’m choosing to trust God and keep fighting in pink. I’m officially relaunching my Pink Swag Shirt—a symbol of the strength He’s given me through every battle.
This isn’t just a shirt. It’s a reminder that even in the valley, God is still with me. Still carrying me. Still writing my story with purpose and hope.
Every time I wear it—and every time you wear it with me—we’re declaring: cancer doesn’t have the final word. God does.
The Pink Swag Shirt is back. Made with faith and a whole lot of pink. Thank you for praying with me and walking this journey.
By His grace, we’re still standing—stronger and more hopeful than ever.