Warrior Spotlight
Finding Strength in the Storm: Kalyn’s Breast Cancer Journey
When Kalyn Fahie was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in May 2022, her world turned upside down. What began as a plan for a lumpectomy and radiation soon grew into two lumpectomies, four rounds of chemotherapy, and years of ongoing treatment. Later, genetic testing revealed she carried the BRCA2 mutation, meaning her cancer journey would continue with aggressive monitoring and possible future surgeries.
For Kalyn, the impact of cancer was felt in every area of life. She had to leave her home in St. Thomas and spend eight months in Detroit for treatment. Financially, the cost of travel, treatment, and daily living weighed heavily on her family. Emotionally, she faced the isolation of attending many appointments alone while her husband, Paul, remained in St. Thomas to keep their household afloat.
But even in the darkest moments, Kalyn found light. She recalls, “God provided miraculously.” At the very moment she thought her job was in jeopardy, a new employer embraced her diagnosis and welcomed her into their team, allowing her to work remotely during treatment. And in Detroit, she and Paul renewed their vows, giving them spiritual strength to face what she describes as “one of the biggest fights of our life.”
The Role of Cancer Support VI
One of the biggest challenges Kalyn faced was the financial burden of traveling off-island for care, a reality many Virgin Islanders with cancer know all too well. That’s when Cancer Support VI stepped in.
Through an easy to access, quick financial grant, Kalyn received critical support for medical bills, medication costs, and the frequent flights required for follow-up appointments. Beyond the financial help, CSVI gave her something equally valuable: hope and community. “What made the biggest difference was knowing that my community cared and that I wasn’t facing this alone,” Kalyn shares.
Words of Encouragement
Today, Kalyn continues to share her story as a way to encourage others. Her advice to anyone navigating cancer: build a support network, accept help, and hold onto faith.
“Don’t let pride stop you from getting the help you need,” she says. “Most importantly, hold onto your faith. Even in the scariest moments, God’s provision shows up in ways you never expected.”
Kalyn now serves as an ambassador for Cancer Support VI, making sure others facing a diagnosis know that help is available. “CSVI doesn’t just help one person at a time; they create positive effects that help our entire territory face cancer together.”
Her journey is a powerful reminder that even in the hardest seasons, hope and support can carry us forward. Today, Kalyn has become a powerful voice and dedicated volunteer for Cancer Support VI, using her story to inspire others and to ensure that no one in the Virgin Islands fights cancer alone.