Marissa Thomas

Marissa Thomas is a breast cancer survivor from Tacoma, Washington. Diagnosed in November 2015 at the age of 35, with stage II high-grade invasive ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS) 35 percent ER-positive, just shy 3 months of her 36th birthday. Her active treatment in 2016 consisted of lumpectomy, Chemotherapy, Radiation and two reconstruction surgeries. While in treatment, Marissa turned to social media as a way to connect with other women and find stories similar to hers in hopes of making the journey easier.

Marissa rarely sugarcoats anything, and breast cancer definitely was not an option. Being a private person, it was hard for Marissa to face the realities and harshness of breast cancer, all while trying to remain positive for those around her. At the urging of a close friend, and fellow breast cancer survivor Cristina, Marissa finally opened up publicly showing not only the beauty but the rawness that comes with breast cancer.

Marissa’s passion going forward is to help anyone who comes behind her and has to fight this horrible disease. Focusing primarily on women of color, educating them on navigating the healthcare system and defining life after cancer. She wants women to know that they can “continue living your best life, regardless of the circumstance.” She has teamed up with friend and fellow breast cancer survivor, Jasmine Souers, and co-founded the first online community for women of color called For the Breast of Us.

Marissa works full-time as a Program Coordinator/Medical Assistant with a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration at the University of Washington Medical Center. When she isn’t championing for her patient’s or advocating for her fellow breast cancer baddies, she enjoys spending time with her son Siaire, family/friends, wine tasting and traveling.