Chicago Bears Honor Breast Cancer Survivor Amy Cash with VIP Day

On October 17, 2023, the Chicago Bears and Advocate Health Care joined forces to honor Amy Cash, a breast cancer survivor from Volo, Illinois, with a VIP experience at Halas Hall. Cash, accompanied by her family, watched the Bears practice for their upcoming game, celebrating her inspiring journey and resilience against the disease.

During the practice session, Caleb Williams, the team’s quarterback, presented Cash with a practice jersey featuring a pink Advocate Health Care patch to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In a heartfelt exchange, Cash gifted Williams a customized jean jacket adorned with patches, symbolizing their shared commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer.

Cash’s battle with breast cancer began unexpectedly in June 2024. A routine gynecological visit led her doctor to discover a lump, prompting a mammogram and subsequent biopsy. The diagnosis revealed stage 2 breast cancer, and she was referred to Dr. Barry Rosen, a breast surgeon at Advocate Health Care. His encouraging words instilled hope in Cash: “This is treatable. You’re not going anywhere. We’re going to beat this.”

Initially, Cash considered a double lumpectomy, but a follow-up biopsy indicated precancerous cells. She opted for a double mastectomy and oophorectomy to minimize the chance of recurrence. Cash completed her treatment with 25 rounds of radiation on her left breast and underwent four revision surgeries to address asymmetry.

Throughout her ordeal, Cash remained determined and pragmatic. “I gave myself permission to be sad, but I didn’t stay there,” she reflected. “I got up and fought, because this is beatable, and I wasn’t going to let it define me.” Her 16-year-old son, Jackson, served as a source of inspiration, reminding her daily to face challenges with strength. “My son is the one person that made me smile daily even if I was sad or struggling,” Cash noted.

Cash praised her care team at Advocate Condell Medical Center, particularly Dr. Amber Seba, a hematologist and oncologist. “She not only monitors my blood counts and other test results but also checks in on how I’m doing both physically and emotionally,” Cash explained. This comprehensive support helped her navigate the complexities of her treatment.

Seba emphasized the critical need for tailored treatment and emotional support during cancer therapy. “Any type of cancer treatment is really somewhat traumatic,” she stated. “Patients need support, not just physically, but emotionally, and it’s our job to walk through that with them.”

Cash expressed gratitude for the continuous support from her medical team, stating, “Thanks to their care and support, I’ve been able to face breast cancer with strength.”

Breast Cancer Awareness Month continued to be recognized during the Bears’ game at Soldier Field, where fans participated in the “Real Bears Fans Wear Pink” campaign. Now in its 18th year, this initiative celebrates breast cancer survivors and raises awareness about the importance of regular screenings.

Cash’s story serves not only as a testament to her courage but also highlights the vital role of community support and medical care in overcoming adversity.