Strength in Pink: Denise Pasion’s Journey Through Breast Cancer

Mrs. Pasion and her daughter Athena share a moment of strength and celebration at Manteca High’s pink out game, honoring survivors and raising awareness for breast cancer.

By JAHLEI-AH SMITH
The Tower 

Under the glow of October’s pink ribbons, one story of courage and resilience shines through the journey of Mrs. Pasion, a woman who transformed fear into faith after being diagnosed with breast cancer, and her daughter Athena, who found strength and perspective in her mother’s fight. 

For Denise, the road to recovery was not easy, but it was one she walked with determination, hope, and unwavering belief. 

“Rely on your faith and your support system,” Denise said. “Ask for help—help is available.” 

From the moment she received her diagnosis, Denise was surrounded by encouragement. Her physician, though direct, offered words that eased her fear. 

“My physician said, ‘Who doesn’t have breast cancer these days?’” Denise recalled. “My response was, ‘Well, I thought me.’ But he gave me his cell phone number and told me I could call him anytime. That meant a lot.”  

Denise received her diagnosis on October 23, 2024. 

Her treatment included a painful biopsy, surgery to remove the lump, and a full month of radiation therapy. The process took a heavy physical and emotional toll. 

“The radiation burned my skin and drained my energy,” Denise said. “But I just kept digging into my faith. I read the Bible a lot. It kept me grounded.” 

Despite the hardship, her experience transformed how she views health and wellness. 

“It’s made me more diligent about what I put in my body and what I do with it,” Denise said. “I’m also more of an advocate now, encouraging others to get their yearly checkups and do their own monthly exams.” 

When asked what message she would give to others facing the same battle, her words were simple but powerful. 

“There’s light at the end of the tunnel,” Denise said. “You can still have a healthy life after breast cancer. Just keep being the best version of yourself and stay healthy.” 

For her daughter Athena, watching her mother’s journey was life changing. 

“When my mom told me she had breast cancer, I was really scared,” Athena said. “That is my mom, that is my everything. I thought I was going to lose her.” 

The diagnosis gave Athena a new outlook on life, one rooted in gratitude and presence. 

“It taught me that I have to live in every single moment because not every moment is promised,” Athena said. “I can’t just wait or brush people off anymore.” 

Balancing high school life while supporting her mom was not easy, but Athena found perspective on her mother’s strength. 

“I realized that even though I’m going through my own stuff, she’s going through something way harder,” Athena said. “It showed me that you have to support the people around you even when you’re dealing with your own worries.” 

Athena also became an advocate for awareness, understanding how vital it is to show care and compassion to those facing illness. 

“Most people think they’re alone and can do it all by themselves, but that’s not true,” Athena said. “My mom is strong, but she still needed people to lean on. Everyone does.” 

When Denise finally rang the bell, marking the end of her treatment, it was a moment of relief and reflection for them both. Denise rang the bell on March 7, 2025. Her breast cancer was stage 1.  

“Early detection is key,” Denise said. “Ringing the bell means you’re done. It felt amazing, but there’s always that thought, will it come back? I just keep praying it doesn’t.” 

For Athena, that moment was unforgettable. 

“It was probably one of the best days of my life,” Athena said. “It felt like this huge weight was lifted off our shoulders. She was not going through all that pain anymore it was finally over.” 

Their story is more than one of survival; it is a reminder of faith, love, and the power of community. As October continues to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Pasion family’s message is clear: early detection saves lives, and no one needs to face the battle alone. 

“There’s light at the end of the tunnel,” Denise said. “Keep faith, stay healthy, and never stop believing in yourself.” 

For Denise, life after cancer has taken on a deeper meaning. Each sunrise feels like a gift, and every moment together is a quiet celebration of survival. The family continues to advocate for awareness, encourage others to listen to their bodies, schedule their checkups, and never ignore the importance of early detection. 

“I want other women to know that it’s okay to be scared,” Denise said. “But don’t let fear stop you from taking care of yourself. You are stronger than you think.” 

As October fades, the message endures: breast cancer awareness isn’t just about one month or one color. It’s about ongoing love, vigilance, and support that lasts all year long. Through their courage and faith, the Pasion family reminds us that even in the face of fear, there is always light, always strength, and always hope.