About Debbie 

Debbie, 66, has been married for 46 years and has lived in central Florida, for nearly two decades. Much of her life has been shaped by managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa — a painful and chronic skin condition that often affects everyday living and can lead to feeling isolated or overlooked. 

After moving to Florida, Debbie was diagnosed with vulvar cancer. Surgery and treatment helped her recover, but during a follow-up colonoscopy — which she now considers a blessing in disguise — doctors discovered colon cancer. She underwent surgery to remove her colon, only to face another major health event the following year: a heart attack at age 52 that required a double bypass. 

Living with multiple severe health conditions has been overwhelming at times. Debbie describes the emotional toll as feeling like her body had betrayed her — where depression is real, and it seems like you’re always waiting for the next shoe to drop. Although she has recovered from major surgeries, ongoing biopsies, medications, and frequent doctor visits remain part of her day-to-day life. She also lives with heart failure, but thanks to modern medicine, she continues to lead a full and meaningful life. Through everything, Debbie has chosen resilience, connection, and advocacy. 

Why Do You Advocate? 

“I advocate because I want others to get the preventive care that saved my life. I want people to listen to their bodies, speak up when something feels wrong, and fight to be heard. Too many times I was told I was ‘too young’ — even when I was having a heart attack at 52. Waiting can be dangerous. 

You never know what someone else is going through. They may look healthy, but their body may be telling a completely different story. Everyone deserves to feel supported and believed. I advocate because we should take care of each other. No one should ever feel like they are fighting their health battles alone.”