A Life-Saving Self-Exam
Fitz Kohler, a well-known race announcer, is living proof that self-examinations can save lives. In December 2018, she received a clean mammogram, but less than six weeks later, while at a race weekend, she discovered a lump under her breast. She instantly knew, it was cancer.
Breaking the News to Her Family
After receiving a formal diagnosis, Fitz had to face one of the hardest challenges: telling her children. Her son, then 14, and her daughter, 16, reacted in different ways, but they got through it together. She recalls how tears eventually turned into humor, with her kids even making lighthearted jokes about her bald head.
“My Noisy Cancer Comeback”
Kohler turned her 16-month cancer battle into a powerful story, writing a book titled My Noisy Cancer Comeback: Running at the Mouth While Running for My Life, which has received five-star reviews on Amazon. Through her book, she encourages women to focus on simple but essential things, like surrounding themselves with loved ones, during tough times.
The Power of Support and Normalcy
Fitz credits her husband, family, and friends for playing a crucial role in her recovery. From helping her walk to driving her to appointments, their support made a significant difference. Neighbors even pitched in by taking her kids to school.
Despite cancer’s challenges, Kohler was determined to maintain a sense of normalcy. Instead of withdrawing, she chose to stay active in her kids’ lives and continued her career without missing a beat.
A Relentless Spirit: Racing Through Cancer
While undergoing treatment, Fitz remained committed to her work, traveling across the country and announcing 30 to 40 events despite chemotherapy. She never let her illness slow her down, showing up bald and unafraid to do what she loved. The support she once gave to runners came back full circle, as her audience and athletes lifted her spirits throughout her journey.
Finding Strength in Laughter
One of Kohler’s biggest takeaways? The power of humor. Cancer brought many unexpected changes to her body: skin, hair, nails, even her eye color, but instead of dwelling on the hardships, she chose to laugh through the chaos.
Moving Forward with Gratitude
Now in remission for over a year, Fitz acknowledges that she had dark days, but she never threw a pity party. Instead, she remained grateful for the scientists, doctors, and fundraising efforts that made her treatment possible. She believes in facing adversity like a “strong little soldier” and appreciating the chance to keep moving forward.
Her story is a testament to strength, resilience, and the importance of never giving up, whether in running, life, or battling cancer.
