Zoe’s Circle came to be following my journey with Breast Cancer.  The goal of this website is to be a source of information for Breast Cancer patients, family, friends and caregivers.  During my journey I noticed those close to me struggling with how they could help.  What did I need?  What would comfort me?  I also came to realize, after talking with other women I got very close to during chemo, that so many of us yearned for gifts that didn’t have anything to do with pink, breast cancer or a ribbon.  Why?  Because we didn’t want to wear a sign around that says, “I have Breast Cancer”.  We didn’t want to be reminded that we were fighting for our life.   These conversations are what prompted the product offerings in Zoe’s Boutique.

My cancer journey actually began in April 2000 when I was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  Even though we were informed that the walnut sized tumor was benign, I knew it was going to be difficult and I needed to stay strong.  I made it through my 10 hour surgery, however due to losing hearing in my left ear, my balance was restricted and therefore I had to learn to walk again.  Of course what I didn’t know at the time was that I would be challenged again.

In July 2007 I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and found it hard not to ask what I had or hadn’t done, that warranted another even tougher battle.  Developing this website and sharing my story has been very emotional as well as healing.  The scars it left behind, not just on my breasts, are fading but will never be forgotten.   

Many people inspired me throughout my journey, but one person that really stands out is Lisa Baluk.  Although Lisa didn’t win her battle and passed away January 2, 2011 at the young age of 32, she made a difference in my life.  Lisa, on several occasions mentioned she wanted to leave some sort of legacy and felt she didn’t get enough time to do that.  What she didn’t realize is that she did.