Finding Calm and Purpose: Kimberly’s Story

When Kimberly LaBrier went in for a biopsy following a mammogram, she knew her radiologist suspected breast cancer. As she sat up on the exam table, she noticed a tiny gold cross glowing through a night light.

“In that moment, a complete sense of calm washed over me. It was undeniable,” said LaBrier, who owns the lifestyle brand Kimberly James Jewelry. “That moment became the inspiration for my Trinity Cross necklace.” 

A few days after the biopsy, LaBrier was diagnosed with cancer.

“Before I knew it, I had a double mastectomy scheduled, chemotherapy planned and was told I would be taking an estrogen suppressant for at least five years,” she said.

Her husband and three children, ages 18, 16 and 13, supported her throughout her journey.

“They carried me through breast cancer in ways I can’t fully put into words,” LaBrier said. “Charlie [her son] would pray with me every single night and ask God to help his mom’s hair not fall out. Those moments will stay with me forever. Their love, their faith, their strength, that is what got me through.”

In addition to her family’s support, LaBrier found hope in her cancer care team. She was treated by Dr. Young Lee, medical director of breast medical oncology at Luminis Health.

“What meant the most to me was that Dr. Lee listened,” LaBrier said. “I never felt dismissed. I felt heard, respected and supported in making informed decisions about my care.” 

LaBrier said she found it reassuring that Lee encourages integrative oncology. 

“That perspective made it easier for me to have open conversations about nutrition, fasting and supportive therapies,” she said.

LaBrier has completed chemotherapy and is taking an estrogen suppressant.

“What I wish more people understood is that even when someone finishes treatment, it doesn’t mean they are done,” she said. “Many survivors continue medication for years, and many of the medications have terrible side effects. The journey doesn’t just end.”

Today, LaBrier continues to run her business while balancing life as a wife and mother.

“Cancer changed me,” she said. “It stripped away what didn’t matter. It deepened my faith. It strengthened my family. It gave new meaning to my work and my jewelry.”

To learn more about breast cancer care at Luminis Health, visit Luminis.Health/Breast.