Survivor,
PhD Student at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
In the middle of her doctoral studies, LaShae discovered a lump that would change the pace of her life. Cancer forces decisions and takes control in ways few expect, but LaShae chose her own unique journey.
An avid weightlifter, She began sharing her recovery openly and returned to the gym as soon as she could. The first lifts were small. The intention was not. “My body is not weak,” she says. “You’re strong after cancer. If you could go through all of those systemic treatments, that’s way harder than anything else in life.”
Strength became both practice and message. Her workouts were proof of progress and a reminder that the body can learn again. Each rep restored control and perseverance. Each mile reaffirmed what she believed about resilience.
LaShae found community in the Dolphins Cancer Challenge, guided by her mentor at the University of Miami, Dr. Tracy Crane. She now trains with fellow survivors and stands among them at the start line with a band on her arm that reads Living Proof. Two words that capture her journey and the example she sets.
She is grateful for the care she received at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and proud of what the DCC makes possible. The ride is not only about distance. It is about the quiet victories that add up to a life reclaimed. For LaShae, lifting means her body is not done. It is learning, moving, and showing what strong after cancer looks like.
Folllow LaShae’s journey on social media – @strongaftercancer
Watch LaShae's full story here at Faces of the DCC.
