

Her Walk
Across the Bridge
ANN LOONAM
Ann Loonam's story is one of resilience, strength, and finding hope amidst heartbreak.
As an 11-year survivor of Stage 2 triple-negative Breast Cancer who also carries the BRCA2 gene defect, Ann’s path has been marked by extraordinary challenges and remarkable perseverance. Facing cancer just months after losing her mother to metastatic endometrial cancer, Ann navigated an incredibly difficult period with determination and support, finding her path toward healing.
“I couldn’t believe it. I really couldn’t. I had gone back in after my scheduled mammogram for a few more images, which had happened before. Only this time, it went from mammogram images to an ultrasound to the radiologist telling me we needed to do a biopsy, that the spots looked ‘suspicious’ for cancer.
I thought it would be a 15-minute appointment. Instead, I found myself sitting in a changing room, getting prepped for a biopsy. At that moment, I knew it was cancer. My primary care doctor confirmed it the next day.
What made my experience even harder was the fact that my mom had just passed away from metastatic endometrial cancer four months earlier. She was my best friend, and I was shattered. I didn’t realize how much grief and stress had weakened my body until I began treatment.
From the beginning, I never called this experience a ‘journey.’ A journey sounds pleasant, and this was anything but. Not long after my mom’s passing, I visited my niece at camp and took a photo of a wooden bridge. It wasn’t anything special, but I liked it.
That image of the bridge became my mental symbol for getting through treatment—crossing over to the other side.”

Ann’s story highlights the importance of resilience and self-advocacy. She shares:
“One way this experience changed me is by teaching me to be my own advocate. I sought out an integrative MD who helped get my body back on track, and it made all the difference. I also learned how strong I truly am, even when faced with unexpected challenges.”

Ann encourages others facing a diagnosis to take things one day—or even one hour—at a time.
She also recommends expressive journaling as a powerful tool for processing emotions:
“Writing down whatever I was mad, sad, or frustrated about helped immensely. It was like a brain dump that cleared my mind. I’d suggest it to anyone going through a tough time.”
Sipping PositiviTEA stepped in at a crucial time for Ann. A grant helped alleviate financial stress by covering essential bills, allowing her to focus on healing. “I live on a fixed budget, so this support lifted a huge weight off my shoulders,” Ann says.
To connect with Ann, follow her on Instagram @littlebirdbyann