Throughout the month of October, Local 4 News First at Four is highlighting the trials and triumphs of breast cancer patients.
This is Annette Stefaniak's story.
When I asked Annette Stefaniak if she had been getting regular mammograms before her diagnoses, she told me that at age 32, and with no family history of breast cancer, she hadn't had one.
While she did feel a lump in her breast, she thought it was irritation from breast feeding her infant.
But it wasn't.
The Canton mother of 7-year-old Liliana, 3-year-old Laura and 15-month-old William is facing stage four cancer.
She's spent three weeks in the hospital getting daily rounds of chemotherapy, which has caused her hair to go, but not her smile.
No one could blame her one bit if she wanted to be angry or sad. As tough as it is now, it's going to get tougher.
But Annette won't let cancer change her.
She tells me she's found beauty in the family and friends who have come to her aid, especially when it comes to managing medical bills with her family's daily budget.
A spaghetti dinner and auction fundraiser is planned for the Stefaniak's family.
Saturday, Oct. 25, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
St. Edith Church
15089 Newburgh Road, Livonia
For prices, view the fundraiser flier by clicking here.