Kelly Zucchi, breast cancer survivor and warrior, wears her scars with pride. Her portrait is a testament to the strength, beauty, and resilience that define her journey and inspire others to keep fighting.
A Warrior’s Melody
For Kelly Zucchi of Green Bay, music has always been more than a passion, it’s been a lifeline. “Music saved my life,” she says. “It carried me through every chapter of my story.” That story took a dramatic turn when she was diagnosed with Stage 2A HER2-positive breast cancer. Her initial reaction? Numbness. “I didn’t know what to feel. I just knew I had to trust the process and fight for my life.”
Kelly’s treatment was extensive: 6 IV chemotherapy sessions, a year of oral chemo, five years of estrogen blockers, a double mastectomy and a full hysterectomy. Through it all, she endured the physical pain, but the emotional toll of watching her loved ones struggle was the hardest part. “They had to be strong for me, even when they were hurting.”
Her mother became her rock, showing up at every moment cooking, cleaning, and caring. “Even when I was grumpy on steroids, she was there,” Kelly says with a smile.
Cancer changed Kelly’s perspective on life. “I used to take things for granted, like bathing myself or tasting food. Now, I appreciate every little thing. Even grocery shopping feels like a gift.”
Her identity has transformed too. “I wear my scars like body armor. I’m proud of my fight, proud of my journey. I’m more confident in my body now than I ever was before.” Confidence, for Kelly, means looking in the mirror and seeing a warrior. “It used to be just words. Now, I see someone full of strength.”
Kelly chose to participate in the boudoir-style portrait campaign to inspire other women. “I want people to know that the fight is worth it. You can get through anything if you believe in yourself.”
Her message to those newly diagnosed is fierce and heartfelt: “I’m honored to be your pink sister. Lace up your gloves and fight like a girl.”
She lives by the mantra: “A beautiful day begins with a beautiful mindset. Sometimes you’re given mountains to show others they can be moved. Bad chapters can still create beautiful stories.”
Kelly hopes her portrait and story show others that healing is possible and powerful. “Remission doesn’t mean life goes back to normal. The story continues. The fight continues. But carry grace with you and let your loved ones be part of your journey.”