My name is Diane Bevacqui, and I live in Manahawkin, NJ. I have two fun-loving, spunky boys whom I adore, and a handyman husband. I work for the Division of Child Protection and Permanency, whom I’ve been employed with for 20 years.

In November 2016, I married the love of my life. Unfortunately, my best friend was unable to stand by my side during my big day as she was diagnosed with breast cancer and was forced to fight a battle she never asked for. My friend was an inspiration as she fought hard for her daughter and herself. She told me she couldn’t do it without the help and love of David’s Dream and Believe, who became her second family.

Eight years later, I was diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer. The confusion, anxiety, anger, and despair quickly consumed me. Two patient advocates from David’s Dream and Believe (Danielle and Lizzie) immediately jumped in and became my instant support. They connected me with amazing oncologists and even accompanied me to my first appointment. They gave me grace, advocacy, and HOPE.

I am now a survivor, and I am learning to give myself grace as I face my post-cancer era. My goal is to help others affected by this awful disease and give them the same support I was blessed with.  What I’ve learned through my cancer diagnosis is the power of solidarity and community support as “No one fights alone”.