Georgia breast cancer patient faces chemo in costume to spread joy

Big laughs, surprised looks and lots of selfies — it’s not how most would describe their trips to the cancer center.

For 72-year-old breast cancer survivor Karen Strelecki, it was an inspiring experience of big challenges and even bigger hugs.

Strelecki was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and has been enduring difficult treatments, ranging from chemo to radiation, ever since. It’s been a tough year, but with the help of a flashy wardrobe and a supportive partner, she’s turned her cancer battle into an inspiring art project.

“What a kick in the head!” she wrote to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “I couldn’t believe it. My husband Greg and I were in total shock. I ate a healthy diet, worked out 4 hours a week at the gym and was very active in my community. How could this happen?”