Survivor Spotlight: Kelly Sangster – A Journey of Strength and Resilience

At Puttin On The Pink, we believe every breast cancer story is worth sharing. These stories not only honor the bravery of survivors but also inspire our community to come together in support of patients and families in Polk County, FL.

Today, we spotlight Kelly Sangster—a dedicated nurse, loving single mother of two daughters, and a courageous Triple Negative Breast Cancer survivor.

A Family-Centered Life

Kelly’s world revolves around her two daughters, ages 18 and 24. From running in The Promise Run to working out together, family is at the heart of her strength. Although she missed the race one year due to it being sold out, she’s already preparing for the next one with excitement and determination.

During our interview, Kelly’s youngest daughter, Abigail, sat proudly by her side—showing the unbreakable bond that has carried them through life’s toughest battles.

A Career Built on Caring

For more than 21 years, Kelly has served patients as a nurse. Her career began in the fast-paced environment of the E.R. as a trauma nurse, but everything changed when she was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer just before her 42nd birthday—and in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite enduring chemotherapy alone due to pandemic restrictions, Kelly never gave up. She continued to work throughout her treatments and never missed a single day. Her biggest fear was that her surgery would be delayed, but her doctor reassured her it was “lifesaving” and would not be postponed.

Embracing New Roles

After chemotherapy, Kelly’s weakened immune system meant she could no longer work in the ER. She transitioned to a role she quickly came to love—Hospice Nursing from home. Today, Kelly has taken on an even more meaningful position as a Breast Cancer Oncology Nurse Navigator at Hollis Cancer Center in Lakeland, FL.

Her personal experience with cancer now allows her to connect with patients in a way few others can, offering empathy, guidance, and hope.

Living as a Survivor

Kelly celebrates five years of being cancer-free this month. But as she explains, life after breast cancer isn’t about “moving on”—it’s about living with strength and awareness. Survivors often carry the constant fear of recurrence, and Kelly wants people to understand that survivors aren’t trying to forget their battle. Instead, they are proud of what they have overcome.

“Family is everything,” Kelly says with passion. She credits her daughters’ love and support as her anchor through it all.

Giving Back Through Puttin On The Pink

Kelly and Abigail have now joined our Puttin On The Pink family, ready to give back to others fighting their own breast cancer battles. Their involvement embodies what our organization is all about—support, hope, and community in Polk County.

Kelly’s message for anyone struggling through breast cancer is powerful:

“You are not alone. There are people out there that love you. You WILL get through this. Don’t EVER give up. You do not have to do this alone. NEVER give up! I will walk with you every step of the way! Family is everything!”

Her journey reminds us why we host our annual breast cancer fundraiser in Polk County, FL—to uplift survivors, provide for patients, and ensure no one faces breast cancer alone.

Join Us in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

Kelly’s story is a shining example of resilience, compassion, and the power of family. At Puttin On The Pink Foundation, we are committed to supporting local breast cancer patients and their families through fundraising, awareness, and community events.

If you’d like to honor survivors like Kelly, join us at our 10th Annual Puttin On The Pink Breast Cancer Fundraiser in Polk County, Florida. Together, we can make a difference for breast cancer patients at the Hollis Cancer Center.

Learn More About Our Event Here