From Survivor to Advocate: Terri’s Journey and the Mission of DiepCFoundation
In 2002, Terri’s life took a sharp turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. What followed was a grueling yet courageous battle—two lumpectomies, eighteen weeks of chemotherapy, six weeks of daily radiation, and five years of tamoxifen. With resilience and determination, she put breast cancer in the rear-view mirror.
But in 2014, the disease returned. This time, Terri faced it head-on with a double mastectomy and a successful DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Rather than letting this chapter close quietly, she transformed her experience into a mission. Terri founded DiepCFoundation.org, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering individuals affected by breast cancer—especially those navigating the complex decisions surrounding mastectomy and reconstruction.
Terri’s advocacy is deeply rooted in knowledge and collaboration. She is a proud graduate of Project LEAD, an intensive science course from the National Breast Cancer Coalition that equips patient advocates with a strong foundation in cancer biology and research. Her leadership extends globally as the co-lead of the World Health Innovation Summit’s shared decision-making expert group.
Through her podcast, DiepCJourney, Terri brings together voices from across the breast cancer community—patients, healthcare professionals, and advocates—to share stories, insights, and hope. Her voice has resonated on international stages, including the London Breast Meeting, BC3 Breast Cancer Coordinated Care Conference, and the iBreast Book webinar series. She’s also a familiar face at local support groups, where she champions the importance of shared decision-making and patient empowerment.
In 2018, Terri’s unwavering spirit was recognized when she received the Patients of Courage: Triumph Over Adversity Award at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ annual scientific meeting in Chicago.
Terri’s focus remains clear: to foster patient engagement in breast cancer treatment, surgery, and care. And this summer, her mission takes center stage.
Join Us: DiepCFoundation 2025 Breast Symposium
📅 Date: July 19, 2025
📍 Location: Overlake Hospital, Bellevue, WA
🎟️ Get Tickets on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/diepcfoundation-2025-breast-symposium-tickets-1347303684589?aff=oddtdtcreator
The DiepCFoundation Breast Symposium is a one-of-a-kind event designed to inform, inspire, and empower. Featuring some of the nation’s leading surgeons, medical experts, researchers, a medical tattoo artist, and courageous individuals who have walked this journey, the symposium offers a comprehensive look at breast surgery and reconstruction options after mastectomy.
Through engaging panel discussions and expert-led sessions, attendees will gain clarity and confidence in making informed decisions. Whether you’re exploring your options or supporting someone who is, this event is a powerful opportunity to connect, learn, and feel supported.
