2024 BCRF Associate Thriver: Mayra Andiola

At the age of 30 years old, Mayra Andiola, general manager of Store 586 in West Plano received the life-altering diagnosis of breast cancer. At that time, her four sons were just 13, 8, 7 and 5 years old. For Mayra, hearing the words “you have breast cancer” was one of the most challenging moments of her life. She made a conscious decision to find the silver lining in every aspect of her treatment. When she was told she would lose her hair, she thought, “No more shaving, and I have a reason to tattoo my head.” When she learned her hair would grow back greyer, she saw it as an opportunity to have the hair color she always wanted without bleaching. And if her straight hair would return curly, she embraced the idea of enjoying natural curls without heat styling.

“Throughout this journey, there were times when I didn’t feel like myself or beautiful. I remember telling my husband, “People can’t see my facial expressions. I need brows!” The following week, he suggested we visit Ulta Beauty. We went to the Carrollton location, Store 521, where I was warmly greeted and asked how they could assist me. Although I can’t recall his name, the associate who helped me made a lasting impression. He took his time to walk me through each step, and by the end of the demo, I felt better than I had in a long time.” said Mayra.

Why is funding breast cancer research to care for survivors important to you?

It is important?to me because I know the pain of the aggressive treatments we have to endure.? I want there to be a treatment that is not as painful or enduring on our bodies.?

What advice would you give co-workers/friends/family looking to care for the well-being of loved ones diagnosed with breast cancer?

Be there in the moment and enjoy every day that you can. Make memories, love, laugh and enjoy the naps, lol. Don't make it an experience of closure, make it an experience of continuation of life.

What does Ulta Beauty’s commitment to BCRF mean to you? Why is it important?

?As we continue to ask every guest, family, and friends?to donate and make a difference, we also have the privilege to listen to someone else's story. Sometimes, it's not the person that was diagnosed but the support system (the friend/family, the spouse, or the next-door neighbor). Every story is different, but the hope and faith remain?the same; One day we will not hear "You have cancer."?