(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Nov. 3, 2025) - Although Breast Cancer Awareness Month has ended, El Paso ISD continues to honor the courage, resilience, and determination of the many survivors across our district. Throughout October, several EPISD staff members bravely shared their personal stories in hope of inspiring others, raising awareness, and reminding our community of the life-saving importance of early detection.
Today, we celebrate their strength. Below are their stories, shared in their own words.
Staff Spotlight: Sandra Gay
“I was 42 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009. I always did my self-exams and got yearly mammograms, but that year I never received my results. During a routine checkup, my doctor discovered invasive spots on my left breast. Thankfully, the cancer was caught early, and after surgery and follow-up care, I recovered. The hardest part was telling my four sons, but I’m so grateful to be alive today.”
Staff Spotlight: Eva Aguilar
“My name is Eva Aguilar and I'm a 9-year survivor of Breast cancer Stage 2 aggressive, w/out my 30-year Transportation Family and my Own Family this journey would have been hard. To still be here and share the Love and Support everyone has given me. I'm so Blessed!”
Staff Spotlight: Diane Gonzales
“I am Diane Gonzales, a 4 year breast cancer survivor. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. For me, it is a time of reflection of my battle with Triple Negative Breast Cancer. As I went through treatment, I learned the importance of being proactive in my care; by becoming better informed, asking questions, and remaining vigilant to better recognize symptoms. Together with my care team, and with my support system both personal & work, I was able to make the best possible decisions and lifestyle changes for my future health.”
Staff Spotlight: Amanda Bowser
"I was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2023. By December, I had undergone a double mastectomy. Thankfully, my cancer was detected at an early stage. I truly believe that early detection is crucial, and I strongly encourage all women to get their screenings every year — even if you don’t have a family history. It can save your life. I know it saved mine!"
Staff Spotlight: Jamie Livingston
"My cancer journey began in the summer of 2013 at just 27. I was diagnosed with stage 1 ductal carcinoma (breast cancer.) At the time, my husband was a 2nd year law student and I had a 5 year old at home going into kindergarten in the fall. I had a family history of breast cancer but deep down I was still shocked. Through months of toxic chemotherapy, the tumor shrunk and I began Herceptin-targeted chemo which lasted 10 more months. I have had 11 surgeries as a result of breast cancer and even though it affected my hair and body and imposed lifelong changes that comes with having cancer, it never diminished my resolve and determination and strength. One thing I have learned from my cancer journey is that it certainly doesn’t discriminate, but having a positive attitude helps you get through the worst of days."
Staff Spotlight: Vikki Groening
"I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2021. Since then, I’ve undergone a double mastectomy with delayed reconstruction, a hysterectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, and recently, a partial thyroidectomy. I continue to take maintenance medication and still experience significant side effects.
What’s important to share is that I didn’t find a lump, which is what many people expect. Instead, I noticed changes in my skin: irritation, redness, swelling, changes in texture, and pain. These symptoms were subtle at first, but they were my body’s way of signaling that something wasn’t right. It’s so important to perform regular self-exams, know your body, and advocate for yourself. You are the expert on your own body, and if something feels off, trust your instincts and seek medical advice. Early detection truly makes all the difference.
My prayers are with everyone living with this illness, and my heartfelt gratitude goes to all the supportive and loving people who lift us up along the way."
EPISD thanks each of these brave women for sharing their stories. Their voices remind our community of the importance of awareness, routine screenings, self-advocacy, and hope.