Stories of Strength: LaTia Edwards

A Journey of Grace, Healing, and Becoming

LaTia Edwards is a licensed clinical mental health therapist, a mother, and a Charlotte native whose journey through breast cancer is rooted in resilience, reflection, and grace.

LaTia Edwards

At 34, LaTia’s life shifted unexpectedly. After noticing an unusual symptom and trusting her instincts, paired with a strong family history, she sought medical care and was diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer. Though caught early, the diagnosis was still deeply personal. Having walked closely alongside her grandmother through a similar journey just two years prior, LaTia understood both the weight and the uncertainty that came with the news.

She chose to undergo a double mastectomy—an intentional decision shaped by her family history and a desire to take control of her future health. Today, nearly two years cancer-free, she reflects on that time not with fear, but with clarity and purpose.

LaTia’s journey wasn’t defined by immediate emotion. Instead, she focused on what she needed in the moment, giving herself the care, space, and attention required to move through treatment and recovery. It wasn’t until later that the deeper emotions surfaced: grief over changes to her body, shifts in identity, and the reality of a new normal.

“My body is different,” she shares, an honest reflection of the physical and emotional transformation that followed.

Throughout it all, LaTia was surrounded by love. From meals and messages to small, meaningful acts of care, her community showed up in ways that reminded her she was never alone. Even her young son, in his own way, became a source of strength and support.

She also found connection at The Pink House. Initially familiar with Carolina Breast Friends through earlier community involvement, LaTia returned after her diagnosis—this time as someone walking the journey herself. Through shared experiences, conversations, and community, she found support, perspective, and a sense of belonging.

Now, in survivorship, LaTia continues to navigate life with intention. While moments of anxiety still arise, she focuses on what grounds her: creativity, movement, connection, and “meeting myself where I am.” Whether it’s singing, writing, spending time outdoors, or simply being present with her son, she embraces the small, meaningful moments that shape each day. Her journey is one of growth, grace, and self-compassion.

“Fully embrace everything that life brings, with love, grace, compassion, and don’t be hard on yourself.”

“Fully embrace everything that life brings with love, grace, compassion, and to not be hard on yourself.”

LaTia carries that mindset forward—not only for herself, but for others.

“There’s a lot of grace that’s been given to me. And I want to give that to others, too.”

“There’s a lot of grace that’s been given to me. And I want to give that to others, too.”

Her story is a reminder that healing is not linear, that strength can be quiet, and that grace—both given and received—can carry us through even the most unexpected chapters.