My Connection with Breast Cancer:
Three Generations of Strength
About
Breast cancer has always been more than a cause to me. It’s been a thread woven deeply into my life story, shaping the woman, mother, and advocate I’ve become.
My journey with breast cancer began long before my own diagnosis or preventive steps. It began with the two women who raised me: my mom and my nana, whose courage continues to guide me every single day.
My Nana: Linda
In the fall of 2015, my nana was diagnosed with breast cancer. She faced her diagnosis with the same strength and grace she carried through every season of her life. She passed away on my birthday, July 12, 2016. I can’t help but believe she chose that day on purpose, as a gentle reminder that love doesn’t leave, it just takes on a new form.
​
On July 11 in 2016, I sat with her and joked about how it would be okay with me if she decided to leave us on my birthday. Everyone around me was so worried about this happening, but I happen to know that my birthday was one of my Nana's most favorite days of the year (how could it not be, really?) because I was born and changed her life. This made my mom and Aunt laugh. I knew that this would be just one more way we were forever connected in life.
I shared so much with her. As her first and only grand baby for about 12 years, the bond we shared was so special. She was my go-to when I needed help with a project around the house, when I needed advice as a teenager on getting along with my mom, she rescued me out of any situation (including but not limited to buying me 27 Beanie Babies in one day, and yelling at my mom for me when she forgot me at school in a thunderstorm), spoiled the absolute mess out of me and probably contributed to my princess personality. She was always there to make me, and the rest of my family, laugh. I inherited her cackle giggle, her smile and I like to think I also got her ability to make anyone feel warm and welcome in her home.
My Mom: Lisa
My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 45 years old. For nine long, brave years, she fought: through treatments, surgeries, and countless hospital visits with unwavering faith and humor. Her goal was simple but profound: to live long enough to meet her grandbabies, and she reached that goal. My mom passed away on December 24, 2019, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and service.
​
My mom was an insanely decorated academic, having devoted her life to helping children and teens who stuttered, and teaching aspiring SLP's on how to be both the best clinicians they can be, as well as the best individuals they can be. She was known around the world for her research, her compassion and her teaching methods. When you Google her, you get the real 'Lisa Scott'. The one I know and love.
​
But beyond her work, my mom was the best person I know. We all say that about our moms though, right? She was hilarious, an incredible storyteller, remembered literally everything about anyone, was the best confidant and advice-giver, loved clothing and the Royal family, and even auditioned for Jeopardy and made it to the 3rd round. She was always there for me anytime I needed it, including running me to Wendy's on multiple occasions when I was having an emergent craving during my pregnancy (our work buildings were right next to each other).
​
She loved her work, her family, and her friends, but she REALLY loved Emma Clare. I'm so happy that I get to see her legacy live on through my own daughter.
Giving Back Together
For many years, my mom and I poured our hearts into giving back through the American Cancer Society.
We both served as volunteers for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Leon County for five years, and I was the Event Chair in 2015. My mom volunteered with Road to Recovery, providing rides to women going through treatment to their appointments. She also served as a volunteer for Reach to Recovery, which is a program that pairs newly diagnosed women with survivors. She became a strong confidant to many women facing the same breast cancer challenges as her.
​
Together through our multiple years of service, we raised over $450,000 for the American Cancer Society in Tallahassee, which gives back to local women and grant programs throughout the Capital City.
My Next Step:
Becoming a Pre-vivor
Now, my journey toward preventing breast cancer takes a new and very personal turn. After years of reflection and genetic counseling, and discussions with my physicans, I've made the decision to begin the steps toward becoming a pre-vivor. This is someone who takes proactive medical action to prevent breast cancer before it begins.
​
In 2026, I'll undergo elective surgery to drastically reduce my risk of developing breast cancer.
​
It's a decision filled with both fear and faith, but it's one I am making for Emma Clare, for my mom and Nana, and for the future I want to build here at Platinum. I want my daughter, and every young dancer who walks through our doors, to know that strength can look like joy, courage, prevention and love.
​
Sharing something so personal isn't easy, but at Platinum we've built a family. And family lifts one another up. If my story encourages even one person to schedule a mammogram, talk to their doctor, or check in on a loved one, then sharing it will have been worth it.
​
Every pink ribbon, every fundraiser, every story matters. The heart behind "Platinum" has always been about shining light - through dance, community and the hardest parts of life.
​
Thank you for letting me share this piece of my heart.
- Ms. Lindsey
