2024 BCRF Associate Thriver: Minda Hernke

Minda Hernke serves as the general manager of Store 605 in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. After a routine visit, Minda received her first mammogram showing concerning results. Shortly after Minda learned that she had metastatic breast cancer. She received a double mastectomy to remove the cancer hoping that the disease was rid from her body. Unfortunately, the cancer was also in her lymph nodes moving her from stage 2a cancer to stage 4/incurable.

Minda found reassurance in her doctors who explained everything to her and shared that many women live for a long time after diagnosis and that this type of hormone therapy is effective and has been around for over 40 years.

“I still cry and think why me and constantly ask myself why did I wait so long to go for a mammogram. I can’t change the past. I keep pushing through. I appreciate the little things a little more like the colors of a rainbow, beautiful flowers, birds and wildlife, sunsets, concerts, packer games, going to work every day, love and support from friends, boyfriend, family, coworkers and snuggles from my dog Lacy.” said Minda.

“This has been an emotional journey for me. I am part of a club that no one asked to be part of. The research is what will allow me to live a long life and maybe one day see a cure, so that I can proudly say I am a survivor. ?Last year I was the BCRF captain for our district. I had no idea that this year the BCRF foundation would be a little more important to me.” said Minda.

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

It gives me hope. Those of us with Metastatic Breast Cancer hope for new treatment lines to extend our lives and give us a quality life until we can no longer fight.

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

Just Listen, Cry with them, Give Hugs, Say Prayers, Send Greeting Cards, offer rides. Remember that everyone's journey and treatment are very different. (some of us are cured and some are not)

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

It shows that they truly care. They have chosen an organization that can truly make an impact on the disease itself.? The research is what will let me continue to thrive.? If BCRF did not exist, I may be in a very different situation and have a very different outlook on life.