Twenty-one years as a Marine, having lived through the 9/11 attacks while stationed in New York and being deployed during Operation Enduring Freedom, Rebecca Mahanes is no stranger to finding strength from within to make it through difficult times. Little did she know though that five years after retiring from the Marines, and just settling into civilian life, that she would be battling breast cancer.  

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There is no doubt that the Marines prepared Rebecca to endure the physical and mental fight ahead, instilling in her that “pain is weakness leaving the body”, but it has been her family, friends and faith that are carrying her through the emotional journey, for which ASCF is honored to be a part of.

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During her active duty with the Marines, Rebecca was stationed in seven different places, but having to leave her Virginia Beach home and her sons to travel to Houston for treatment was the hardest move she has ever had to make. To comfort her youngest son who was very concerned if she would die, she left him with, “Not today. Someday, but not today”. 

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Rebecca has now undergone three surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation. This week she started a new trial that she is hopeful will get her home in time for Christmas. Her eight-month cancer journey has certainly had its fair share of struggles, but she has remained poised and ready for the path ahead, never losing sight of living in the moment. As she says, “Bring it on”!  

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The ASCF community salutes you, Rebecca, for your service and for your courage to take on your cancer journey with such strength and grace. God bless all those who have served our country and have had a cancer journey of their own at ASCF and beyond.