“Jack of all trades and master of some.” This tongue-in-cheek term may just sum up Amanda Rondeau’s life, which has given her the titles of mother, athlete, advocate, and more. Today, she’s thankful to add “breast cancer survivor” to the mix.
When the 46-year-old mother of 2 was diagnosed with cancer, there was no fight-or-flight response…only fight! Even as she struggled with mental health, fitness withdrawals, and the pain of telling her family, she never gave up on kicking this disease to the curb.
And now, we’re lucky enough to hear Amanda’s story of strength and survival. Let’s give it up for this month’s Surthrivor!
“I’m definitely a go-getter, a fighter, and always have been.”
After being officially diagnosed with breast cancer at the end of 2021, Rondeau wasted no time fighting back.
She started chemotherapy in February, along with receiving a full left-sided mastectomy, removing 23 lymph nodes, and partaking in 15 sessions of radiation therapy.
From the beginning, she took charge and made it clear that she was in control here, setting the tone for the remainder of her cancer journey. This was hardly the first time she’s been faced with a medical challenge, having dealt with mental health issues throughout her life and grappling with postpartum depression after the birth of her first child in 2011.
But as the old saying goes, what doesn’t get you down, only makes you stronger… Amanda Rondeau is living proof. Her resilience, empathy, and power are simply unmatched, making her an inspiration for anyone facing breast cancer or depression.
“I love walking my dog, and she came into my life as a blessing. Josh [my partner] and the kids wanted a dog, but I didn’t want the extra responsibility since I spent most of my days depressed in my room. But she made me get out of bed to take care of her and take her for walks. She helped me so much and I’m super grateful.”
Despite her aggressive form of breast cancer and side effects from treatment, including lymphedema from her lymph node removal, Amanda made it her mission to maintain a sense of normalcy.
She still worked out during chemotherapy, attended all her children’s sports events, and even welcomed a dog into the family to inspire her to get out of bed every day!
She also switched careers — transitioning from an emergency medical dispatcher to a corporate travel arranger — and now considers herself a breast cancer advocate alongside her status as a mental health champion. Is there anything this woman can’t do? Instead of lying down and crying at such a devastating diagnosis, Amanda turned her pain into something productive and beautiful. And we love her for it.
Amanda’s desire for normalcy serves as a lesson for others battling breast cancer…you are not your illness. You’re still the same unique individual with hobbies, goals, and dreams for the future, and maintaining your pre-cancer routine can be ideal for your mental health. Whether it’s your weekly book club, a brief walk in the neighborhood, or lunch dates with your grandkids that keep you going, these simple joys are stronger than cancer could ever hope to be.
“I did, and still enjoy, biking, walking in the woods, working out, traveling, and disconnecting. I value my family time as well as my alone time.”
Similar to last month’s Surthrivor, the lovely Carrie Martinelli, Amanda is a very active woman who loves biking, lifting weights, and hiking. She was in the best shape of her life before her cancer diagnosis, having just completed the impressive 75 Hard Challenge. And therefore, Amanda decided instantly that she wouldn’t let the disease overtake her fitness goals.
Of course, it wasn’t always easy. After surgery, her mental health declined when she was unable to lift weights for nearly two months. At the advice of others, she allowed herself to physically rest, but sadly, this period resulted in another depression spiral that Amanda had faced on and off throughout her life.
Luckily, Amanda has her exercise routine and mental health (mostly) back in control today, and is open about the benefits of exercise for breast cancer patients. While you should always consult your doctor before starting an exercise routine, research has demonstrated why fitness can be a lifesaver for those diagnosed with this illness.
One 2005 study shows that women who walked roughly 3-5 hours per week at an average pace had a significantly lower risk of death from breast cancer, compared to those who didn’t. Meanwhile, BreastCancer.org states that even a moderate fitness routine can lower your risk of cancer recurrence. So get moving, your body will thank you!
"If I could say one thing to others going through a similar journey, it would be to take care of yourself and don’t give up…even though it feels like it won’t get better, it will. You will come out even stronger in the end. Give yourself some grace, but not too much grace. Keep moving your body. Self-care and self-love are essential!”
During her cancer journey, another patient told Amanda that it would take a full year of remission to feel like herself again. And while initially skeptical, she found this to be very true. She’s still adapting to her new normal, which contains a series of physical and mental health roadblocks she hadn’t previously considered.
But if we’ve learned anything about Amanda, it’s that she’s always up for a challenge and new adventures. And this includes her beauty routine!
When she began losing her hair during chemotherapy, she and her family had a “head shaving party” to remind everyone that bald is beautiful. And then there are her Prime favorites, who are there for her through thick and thin.
We mean that, too, as Amanda loves PrimeEyes Glide Eyeliner in strokes of all sizes!
She often pairs with PrimeLash Mascara for a polished, perfectly stunning look that never goes out of style. And for a so-called “Plain Jane” who doesn’t wear much makeup daily, Amanda’s gushing over her “nice and full” new lashes is a compliment to the highest degree.
Quick reminder: you can get both of these products, our two best-sellers for everyday simple glam, in the Bestseller Bundle.
And if you’ve also struggled with sparse lashes due to chemotherapy, like Amanda, we’d recommend throwing in the PrimeLash Growth Serum for incredible results in as little as 2-3 weeks!
Amanda Rondeau’s story embodies everything a “Surthrivor” is about: proving from day one that she’s not a victim of breast cancer, but a fighter of it. Her unwavering determination to keep running (literally) towards a brighter and healthier future, all while advocating for herself and others, proves that cancer doesn't have to define you.
Casual reminder: life after cancer can be even more beautiful than before, and Amanda is a prime example. She has a new job, new fitness routine, new beauty products…the list goes on and on! Through a combination of strength, support, and self-love, she’s now in her element. And it’s never too late to find yours, too. Has Amanda inspired you as much as she did us?
What was your favorite part of Amanda’s story? Let us know at info@primeprometics.com. You can follow Amanda’s journey at: @amanda_rondeau_ on Instagram.
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