This morning, nearly 20 breast cancer thrivers—residents and teammates at Presbyterian Village North (PVN)—gathered for the annual Thrivers Breakfast, an event dedicated to sharing stories of strength, survival and solidarity. Among those present was special guest Karena Tsai, a 29-year-old local survivor who, despite being a multiple generations younger than most attendees, deeply connected with the women in the room.
Karena’s story began two years ago when she was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer. She faced months of aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, followed by reconstructive surgery. Now, with her cancer in remission, she’s on a path to recovery and rediscovering herself as she approaches her 30th birthday—a milestone that will mark both her entrance into a new decade of life and her triumph over cancer.
Karena’s participation in today’s event was more than just a gesture; it represented a bridge between generations of women bound by their shared battle. Several residents, many old enough to be her grandmother, approached her after the breakfast to learn more about her journey. These women were eager to bring her message to their own granddaughters, encouraging them to prioritize self-advocacy and regular mammograms.
The most recent cancer diagnosis among the PVN thrivers came from an 85-year-old resident, who discovered her breast cancer at the age of 80—five years after being told she no longer needed mammograms. Her story underscored the importance of vigilance, a message that resonated deeply with the group.
As the thrivers shared their own experiences, from diagnosis to survival, a sense of solidarity filled the room. For Karena, this connection to women who had lived through similar struggles was uplifting. “It’s incredible to hear their stories of overcoming this disease,” she said. “Even though I’m younger, I feel like we’re all walking the same path.”
Karena’s journey became intertwined with the PVN community after they discovered her wish list on WeGotThis.org, a platform that helps cancer patients and survivors create registries for items that aid in recovery. Moved by her story, PVN residents began donating to fulfill her requests. Today, she was presented with a walking pad, a thoughtful and practical gift that she had hoped for as she embarks on life after cancer.
Donations will continue to be collected through Friday, October 25, to fulfill the rest of her registry, further symbolizing the bond between the women of PVN and Karena.
As Karena stood with the group of thrivers today, she reflected on the road she’s traveled and the importance of events like this. “It’s not just about surviving cancer,” she said. “It’s about thriving after it.”
PVN’s Annual Thrivers Breakfast is a wonderful celebration of life, resilience and the power of community. And this year, it has also become a cross-generational rallying cry for early detection, advocacy and the shared strength of women overcoming breast cancer together.
To help complete Karena’s wish list, see PVN’s Community Life Team, or click here. Watch NBC5 clip here.
