Nicole Zabel’s positivity in the face of the unimaginable is something to be admired. Here she shares her family’s story beautifully–Cocktails & Caregivers couldn’t be happier to lend a hand.

The Moment Life Changed.

“In October of 2021, my life, and my family’s life, changed forever. What started as “a lump that’s probably a cyst” in my left breast turned into Triple Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. 

“It’s fair to say that my diagnosis was a complete and total shock to me, my husband, and our families/friends. At 31 years old, this was not a road I expected to walk. But, here we are.”

The “Hard Part”

“After 16 rounds of chemotherapy over 24 weeks, followed by a Bilateral Double Mastectomy, we all thought the “hard part” was over. We were wrong. 

Just seven short weeks after my surgery, we received the news that my cancer was still active and metastasized to my lungs, chest wall, and a lymph node in my neck. What was supposed to be the start of radiation quickly changed to a new chemotherapy regime — weekly treatments, two weeks on/one week off. 

As a wife to my wonderful husband, Zach (married in 2014), and mother to two sweet boys, Zach (5) and Zane (3), I have chosen not to let cancer define me. On days I feel well, I enjoy bringing my boys to the trampoline park or going on a date with my husband.

Cancer is a part of my story, but it’s not my whole story. I believe God had a plan and faith that my miracle is coming.”

Cocktails & Caregivers is providing a $2,000 grant to help cover the cost of Zach and Zane’s schooling this fall so Mom & Dad can focus on Nicole’s treatment.