Abel’s journey with breast cancer began in late 2023 when he was diagnosed and started chemotherapy known as the “red devil.” He received treatments every other week for two months, followed by a mastectomy in April 2024. That summer, Abel went through additional chemotherapy and radiation, but complications arose when the treatment began to affect his heart. Now, with ongoing tests and the possibility of needing a pacemaker, his cancer journey has become a lifelong road of treatment and recovery.

As a male breast cancer survivor, Abel faces unique challenges—from the surprise and disbelief of others when they learn about his diagnosis to the difficulty of finding other men with similar experiences. 

Through it all, Abel has leaned on his faith and family for strength, while also finding support in the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC). DBCC’s Breast Care Assistance Fund helped his family during a difficult financial transition after he had to stop working, and its staff have provided resources, encouragement, and a listening ear when he needed it most.

While his life has changed dramatically—from working daily to scheduling everything around medical appointments—Abel remains grateful. “The past couple of years have been hard because it’s all been about accepting change whether I want to or not,” he says. “But my family and God have been my guiding lights, and I am still thankful to just even be here.”

Help the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition raise the funds necessary to continue providing life-changing programs and services to community members, breast cancer survivors, and their families.