Five Years Cancer-Free: Cheryl Michelet’s Journey of Gratitude and Giving Back

This November, Cheryl Michelet will celebrate a milestone she once only dreamed of reaching: five years cancer-free. Diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2020, Cheryl’s journey through treatment was marked by courage, faith and an unwavering determination to live fully. Today, she is not only a survivor but also a passionate advocate for other patients at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center.

Cheryl began chemotherapy in June 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic, which made an already difficult situation even more intense. Safety restrictions meant she had to attend appointments alone, without her husband or children by her side; instead, she leaned on the nurses, doctors and staff at Mary Bird Perkins, who became her constant support system. “They were just so helpful and supportive, and they became like family because my family couldn’t come in with me,” Cheryl said.

Her treatment plan included high-dose chemotherapy, which she called “monster chemo,” followed by surgery and radiation. It was grueling, but Cheryl remained focused. Friends launched a gratitude campaign on her behalf, encouraging people to write down what they were thankful for. “I collected over 400 handwritten notes of gratitude. I read them every day, and I think that helped me get through it,” she said.

Cheryl became cancer-free in November 2020. As she grew stronger, she felt called to give back to the very community that had sustained her. She became active with Mary Bird Perkins’ Echo Alliance, which amplifies the voices of patients and families. She has moderated panels, shared her story publicly and offered guidance as a patient advocate. “I think my role is just to help other patients, to let them know they’re not alone,” she said.

Now, as she reaches the fifth anniversary of her final treatment, Cheryl reflects on the blessings that followed her diagnosis. “I know not everybody gets to the five-year mark, so I am just so grateful. I don’t take one day for granted,” she said.

Family continues to be at the center of her life. Cheryl and her husband, Kirk, cherish time with their two children, Christian and Jessica. Watching them grow and achieve their own goals has been one of her greatest joys since recovery. She also dedicates time to caring for her sister, supporting her through health challenges with the same compassion she once received. “Family is everything,” Cheryl said.

Her career has also taken on renewed purpose. Cheryl has spent decades in communications and public relations, serving as Director of Communications for BREC before taking on her current role at the American Sugar Cane League. Alongside her professional work, she founded Michelet Strategic Communications, a consulting business that continues to grow. “My plans are to live with gratitude, to give back and to keep making memories with my family,” she said.

For Cheryl, the milestone of five years cancer-free is not the end of a story. It’s the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with family, purpose and a commitment to ensure that every patient who walks through the doors of Mary Bird Perkins feels the same support, hope and encouragement that carried her through.

For more information about Mary Bird Perkins, including treatment options and patient stories, please visit marybird.org.