Breast Cancer Diagnosis Leads Bronte Price to ThriveWell’s Supportive Diva Community
By Kristina G. Aderhold
Bronte Price’s world was upended in November 2019 with a stage II breast cancer diagnosis. While the physical toll of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and a clinical trial were grueling, the emotional effect of feeling like a burden on her husband and daughter weighed even heavier.
Bronte yearned for normalcy and was looking for connection. A flyer from her oncologist’s office about ThriveWell Cancer Foundation’s Diva&Dude program sparked hope. This free program offers exercise and nutrition specifically designed for cancer patients and survivors. Research shows exercise and proper nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
Becoming a “Diva” in the program was a turning point. Yoga, aqua fit, and group therapy weren’t just ordinary activities – they were a lifeline to a supportive community. “We understand each other,” Bronte says. “It’s a chance to be there for one another, a true brotherhood and sisterhood. The classes and the support group leader, who was also battling breast cancer, helped me confront my depression and anxieties related to doctor’s appointments and scans. Talking to others who understood was crucial. If you have to be part of a club because of your cancer diagnosis you’re in the best club to be in.” Sharing experiences with fellow survivors replaced isolation with a sense of belonging.
ThriveWell’s impact extends far beyond Bronte’s story. Since its inception, they’ve provided over $11.5 million in financial assistance, alleviating a significant burden for countless patients. Additionally, their Research Program has provided over $850,000 in cancer research funding, fueling the hope for a future free from the disease.
“Our mission,” says Erin Ercoline, ThriveWell’s Executive Director, “is to ease the burden on adult cancer patients and their families in San Antonio.” By addressing financial anxieties and providing vital resources like Diva&Dude, they empower patients like Brontë to focus on recovery, not just survival.
ThriveWell’s dedication to research fuels hope for a future free from cancer. Their commitment to patient well-being creates a network of support, reminding individuals like Bronte that they are not alone. Celebrating four years breast cancer-free this year, Bronte embodies what it means to be a true THRIVER.
Learn more about ThriveWell Cancer Foundation at www.thrivewell.org or follow them on social media @thrivewellsa.
Join us this October at the following breast cancer awareness events benefiting ThriveWell Cancer Foundation:
• Bras for a Cause
o Thursday, October 3rd
o 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
o New Braunfels Civic Center
o Tickets and Registration: http://www.b4actx.com/
• Women in Medicine & Law Pink Party
o Monday, October 7th
o 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
o The Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum
o Tickets and Registration: www.thrivewell.org/pinkparty
• Paint the Parkway Pink 5K Fun Run
o Saturday, October 12th
o 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
o Hosted by Cornerstone Christian School
o Tickets and Registration: www.painttheparkwaypink.com
• Healing Hearts Telethon
o Thursday, October 17th
o ALL DAY
o Watch on Fox San Antonio
o Donate Here: www.thrivewell.org/healinghearts
• Pedaling in Pink Social Ride
o Saturday, October 26th
o 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
o Alamo Beer Company
o Tickets and Registration: www.thrivewell.org/socialride
