Carlene King

Carlene King’s optimism and independence presented a tough challenge for the Stage 2 breast cancer she was diagnosed with in 2007 at the age of 45. As a real estate broker and single mother of two teenage daughters, Carlene embraced the diagnosis as simply another challenge to conquer. Upon self-examination, Carlene found a lump in her breast and immediately made an appointment to receive a mammogram. After the tests came back negative for any cancer, doctors told Carlene that the lump was a result of calcifications. Knowing something was not quite right, Carlene urged doctors for nearly two months until they agreed to give her a sonogram. After finally finding the lump, doctors told Carlene to prepare herself for the results. On December 7, 2007, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Immediately after being diagnosed, Carlene called a close friend who had accompanied her on all her doctor visits and biopsies to inform him of the news. She attempted to wait until her daughters were out of school for the holidays to tell them, but Carlene accidently broke the news to them with one week of school left. While her eldest daughter broke down in tears, Carlene’s youngest daughter felt no need to cry because she was certain her mother would be triumphant in her battle with breast cancer. Filled with optimism, Carlene was able to cope with her diagnosis without experiencing any negativity, depression, or fear. Carlene also found support and guidance in the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Tarrant County affiliate. Komen offered Carlene references to cancer services and facilities offering assistance.With no insurance at the time of her diagnosis, Carlene was determined to set up a payment plan with the hospital to ensure she received all the necessary medical treatments. After an initial meeting and appointment, she was barely pulling out of the parking garage when a hospital representative had called to offer her financial aid. Carlene was notified that an individual would be calling her on Friday to discuss what she believed to be payment plan agreements. Upon answering her phone, she was unexpectedly notified that one-hundred percent of her over $50,000 in medical bills would be covered, and she was to rip up any bills she had already received in the mail. Part of the financial help that Carlene received for her care came directly from funds raised by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Tarrant County affiliate through their grants to Cancer Care Services. She was also fortunate to have some doctors donate their services. Never entertaining the option of feeling sorry for herself, Carlene’s positive attitude began rubbing off on everyone she came into contact with. She made sure to surround herself with individuals who provided encouragement and disassociated herself with anyone who challenged her ability to remain a strong, independent woman despite her illness.

Since being diagnosed, Carlene has found comfort in the close bonds she has made with the supporters and employees of Susan G. Komen Tarrant County. In addition to being a devoted Race for the Cure® participant, Carlene’s mission has become to inform and educate others on the issues of breast cancer, specifically within the African-American community. In addition to supporting Komen’s quest to find a cure for breast cancer, Carlene has become an advocate of awareness and education. She displays her passion for informing others through participating in interviews and volunteering at health fairs. Carlene is currently working with her connections at Tarrant County Komen to inform African-Americans of the financial support available if diagnosed with breast cancer and encouraging them to be checked. Carlene’s new mission consists of going out into the community and helping other people who may be struggling with similar situations. After succeeding in winning her own battle, Carlene is now helping others in the fight to find a cure for breast cancer.