10/03/2026
Today, I’m sharing something more personal than the spaces we create.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it feels like the right time to share this part of my life.
In June, I was diagnosed with breast cancer—at the exact same age my mom was when she received her diagnosis. Facing the same disease, I am determined to rewrite our family’s story.
Many of you know that Clarkee Design honors my mom, Suzanne. Our logo is her signature. I lost her to breast cancer when I was 23, and her influence is woven into everything I create. These past few months, I’ve felt that connection more deeply than ever.
Knowing my family history, I had genetic testing years ago, which was negative for BRCA mutations. I’ve been diligent about screenings and taking precautions since I was 30.
Yet I found the lump myself. It did not show up on a mammogram, but it was visible on ultrasound. An MRI then uncovered another area in my left breast, where a biopsy revealed high-risk and precancerous changes.
Since then, I’ve undergone a bilateral mastectomy and am now receiving chemotherapy at MD Anderson.
I’ve needed time to process this before sharing it publicly. There are hard days, hopeful days, and days when both exist together. I’m deeply grateful for my care team and for everyone who has supported me and my family.
This October, awareness feels deeply personal. My experience has reminded me how important it is to know your body and speak up when something feels different, even when you’ve kept up with screening.
Design continues to bring me joy, and I’ll keep sharing the spaces we create, along with pieces of this experience when I feel ready.
Thank you for being here—for the design, and now for the person behind it.
With love,
Kristin
