Angela Torres, a Throgs Neck resident, first felt a lump in her breast at just 39 years old. Initial tests in 2017 showed it was stage zero, and she was told no treatment was needed. But she remained vigilant with her screenings, a decision that would later prove life-saving.

In 2022, Torres received the news no one wants to hear: a breast cancer diagnosis. A mother of three, she immediately committed to fighting through the disease. Torres underwent lumpectomies, lymph node removal, and rounds of chemotherapy and radiation.

Her journey wasn’t easy. Treatment took some of her hair, and the physical toll tested her mental strength. Torres kept going with the support of her family and sister, Elena, who described Angela as “a wonderful mom, wife, sister, and best friend.”

Now two years cancer-free, Torres is urging women and men to prioritize their health. “Love yourself enough to make the time to get early screening,” she said. “It literally can save your life.”

The American Cancer Society recommends that women at average risk start mammograms at age 40. Torres hopes her experience will encourage others to seek early detection and care.