LEXINGTON, S.C. — Karen Bonds never imagined that one invitation could change the course of her life.
“In 2023, my neighbor asked me to go to Women’s Night Out with her,” she said.
At first, she wasn’t sure about going, but when she learned the event focused on breast cancer awareness, she was all in.
“I got excited because my cousin had just been diagnosed with breast cancer,” she said. “I thought, ‘Maybe I can get some information to help her.’ So I went—and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I was glued to every word these women shared—their journeys, their strength.”
That evening ignited a passion in Bonds to take action.
“I told my friend, ‘We have to be a part of this. I want to help. I want to raise money. I want to do whatever I can to support these women,’” Bonds said.
What she didn’t know was that this mission would soon become deeply personal.
A Life-Altering Diagnosis
Just nine days later, Bonds was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Her annual mammogram had revealed a small area of concern, prompting doctors to schedule a 3D ultrasound. That scan confirmed the diagnosis.
She underwent a lumpectomy on her left breast, followed by chemotherapy and radiation.
But she met the fight armed with faith.
“From the beginning until now, God has been with me,” Bonds said. “I’ve had a bumpy road, but I made it through, and I’m continuing to make it through. I know I couldn’t have done it without God. And now, I know I’m meant to help others.”
A Support System Like No Other
Throughout her battle, Bonds leaned on a network of family, friends, and medical professionals who stood beside her every step of the way.
“I have a beautiful support team, my family, my friends, my neighbors, everybody has been there. It has been amazing. It has and I wish that everyone could have that. I was never alone during chemo and radiation. My husband was my lifeline. That is why I truly believe no one fights alone.”
Beyond her personal circle, she found solace in a community of survivors who understood the emotional and physical toll of the disease.
“I said I wasn't going to cry, but you can't help it when you're thinking and seeing what amazing journeys these women have been on," Karen explained. " And it's not all about me. I don't even think about myself. I don't even think about what I've gone through. I like to think about the women that are coming behind me. I want to talk to them. I want to answer their questions. I want them to know that they do not have to do this by themselves.”
Turning Pain Into Purpose
Inspired by the support she has received—and her firsthand knowledge of the toll this disease takes—Bonds has made it her mission to create a community for survivors.
“I would love to make this journey easier for someone,” she said. “Even if it’s just by answering a question or offering encouragement. If I can help one woman get through this a little easier, that would be a blessing.”
For Bonds, that support starts with a conversation.
“When I was first diagnosed, I started talking to my family,” she said. “I didn’t know that six of my relatives had also battled breast cancer—because no one talked about it.”
Now, she encourages open dialogue and urges women to seek information from survivors and medical professionals.
“Kelly Jeffcoat at Lexington Medical Center and the women in the Woman to Woman group have answered so many questions for me,” Bonds said. “One thing I tell people—do not search the internet. You’ll go down a rabbit hole. Instead, talk to people who have been through it. Talk to doctors, nurses, and friends who have faced it. That’s your best source of support.”
A Powerful Lesson: No One Fights Alone
Through her own experience, Bonds has learned that support makes all the difference.
“You get through it better with someone by your side. You get through it easier when you have someone who understands what you're going through. There's someone there for you. I would be there if you want if you need someone. I would talk to anyone and be there.”
That’s why she’s made it her mission to be there for others—whether it’s answering questions, offering encouragement, or simply listening.
“This journey is something that you do not have to do alone. It is not good to do it alone. You don't have to do it alone," she explained. "The best thing I like to say is no one fights alone. No one fights this fight alone, and you shouldn't."
A Full-Circle Moment
The event that first inspired her now carries an even deeper significance.
In 2023, she sat in the audience at Women’s Night Out, captivated by the stories of survivors.
In 2024, she was on stage—this time as a model, walking the runway with confidence, strength, and purpose.
"It was one of the most amazing nights of my life," Karen said.
