In August of 2009, 25 year-old Sharista Shourie found a lump in her right breast during a self-exam. Less than a month later she was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer. She began researching and visiting doctors to determine her best treatment options, what she could expect from treatment and life after cancer. At the recommendation of a friend she joined a breast cancer support group through the Cancer Support Community (CSC) and its affiliate the Wellness Community, West Los Angeles. In 2012 she had her first round of checkups and had no evidence of the disease. She is now committed to raising awareness about breast cancer. She continues to attend the CSC support group and has become a vocal advocate for patient empowerment, encouraging all women to become active participants in their health so they can take the right action for themselves.