Breast Cancer Survivor Celebrates 9 Years After Diagnosis

Te Ray Parks didn't let a breast cancer diagnosis stop her life, instead powering through with support from loved ones.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Te Ray Parks was diagnosed with stage two HER2-positive breast cancer in 2017. She underwent a double mastectomy, chemotherapy, and reconstruction surgery that year. Now, nearly nine years later, Parks is a grandmother and hospice worker who says her cancer journey gave her a new outlook on life - one of taking things day by day and savoring every moment. Parks credits the support of her family, friends, and coworkers for helping her through treatment, and she now aims to pay that forward by supporting others facing their own health battles.

Why it matters

Parks' story highlights the power of a positive mindset and community support in overcoming a serious health challenge like breast cancer. Her experience underscores the importance of self-exams, early detection, and advocating for one's own health. By sharing her journey, Parks hopes to inspire others facing similar circumstances and raise awareness about breast cancer.

The details

In July 2017, Parks found a lump during a self-exam and was subsequently diagnosed with stage two HER2-positive breast cancer. She quickly underwent a double mastectomy and reconstruction surgery, followed by chemotherapy, all within the same year. Despite the whirlwind of treatment, Parks maintained a positive attitude, embracing the support of her coworkers at UT Medical Center and leaning on her family and friends. She even found humor in losing her hair, remarking that she had a "beautiful bald head."

  • In July 2017, Parks found a lump during a self-exam and was diagnosed with breast cancer.
  • In the same month of July 2017, Parks had her double mastectomy and reconstruction surgery.
  • In December 2017, Parks started chemotherapy treatment.
  • In 2017, Parks completed all of her cancer treatments.
  • In 2026, nearly 9 years after her diagnosis, Parks is a grandmother and hospice worker.

The players

Te Ray Parks

A 9-year breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed in 2017 and underwent a double mastectomy, reconstruction, and chemotherapy that year.

UT Medical Center

The hospital where Parks worked, and where her coworkers, doctors, and nurses felt like family during her cancer treatment.

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What they’re saying

“I just live one day at a time. That's all you can do. I mean, just be happy in the moment.”

— Te Ray Parks (wbir.com)

“Breast cancer gave me a new outlook on life, taking one day at a time, relaxing and just not getting overly excited on life itself and just being like, 'Oh okay, this too shall pass it will be okay, it's all good, take a break, relax and breathe'”

— Te Ray Parks (wbir.com)

What’s next

Parks plans to continue supporting others facing health challenges by visiting with seniors and speaking to high school students to raise awareness about breast cancer.

The takeaway

Te Ray Parks' inspiring journey shows how a positive mindset, strong support system, and determination can help overcome even the most daunting health obstacles. Her story underscores the importance of self-care, early detection, and empowering others who are facing their own battles.