Sara Flores is a courageous cancer survivor who has faced her diagnosis with remarkable strength and resilience. She has leaned on her faith, family, and community for support throughout her journey. Her story is about hope, determination, and inspiring perseverance in adversity.
“My biggest goal through all of this has been to make sure my pain turns into purpose, that it wasn’t all for nothing,” Flores said. “I want to support other women on their journeys, to help them feel seen, appreciated, and—most importantly—not alone. I want them to know that there is hope for the future.”
That strength extended beyond her personal life and into her professional world at Briar Ridge Country Club, where she experienced many of life’s significant milestones. The club became more than just a workplace—a second home, rich with meaning and memories.
“I’ve worked at Briar Ridge Country Club for eight years,” Flores said. “I’ve celebrated so many milestones here. I didn’t get married at the club, but I got married while working here. I welcomed my daughter during my time here, and I even received my cancer diagnosis while employed here. I’ve lived a lot of life within these walls.”
Her connection with the team went far beyond professional courtesy—it was deeply personal and grounded in mutual respect. Their unwavering support during her most challenging moments, from stepping in to cover her responsibilities to offering heartfelt encouragement, reflects the strength of the relationships she built and the trust she earned throughout her time there.
“I went through the full gamut—chemotherapy, surgeries, radiation, all of it,” Flores said. “Even with a strong support system, it can feel incredibly isolating. That’s why being connected to other survivors or people currently fighting cancer is so vital. A different level of understanding comes from someone who’s walked that same path.”
Flores’ passion for dance has been a lifelong thread, shaping her identity and professional path. From her early days in the studio to earning a dance degree in Chicago, the art form has remained a constant source of inspiration and expression throughout her journey.
“Dancing is that outlet for me, but more than anything, I’m just incredibly grateful for everyone who’s supported me along the way,” Flores said. “Alyssa Gawlinski, who is the president of the Fighting Pretty organization to help women feel beautiful and strong during their cancer journey, has spoken my name in rooms I haven’t even entered yet. It’s giving me opportunities to share my story, and I’m so thankful for that.
As she continued to heal, she found ways to give back—raising funds, creating awareness, and merging her personal experiences with community efforts like the collaboration with Fighting Pretty. Her drive to uplift others became as powerful as the support she had once received.
“Alyssa really helped us fundraise here,” Flores said. “We even created a specialty cocktail one month to raise money for that cause. The support I’ve received here has been personal and part of a larger, significant effort.”
Flores was honored to be the Guest of Honor at Fighting Pretty’s Petals of Strength Fashion Show. She described the event as a wonderful and supportive experience filled with love, empowerment, and a deep sense of community.
“I was truly honored to participate, but more than anything, I was excited to have a platform to share my story,” Flores said. “So many people are touched by cancer in some way, and I hoped that by sharing my journey, I might reach someone who feels alone or needs a little extra inspiration while going through their battle.”
Flores expressed deep empathy for anyone facing a diagnosis like hers, acknowledging how difficult the journey can be. Yet, she also emphasized a message of resilience and hope, reminding others that they will fight through it no matter how hard it gets.
“What matters is allowing yourself that space—and then, when you’re ready, picking up that armor again and continuing forward, whether that’s a crawl, a walk, or whatever pace you need,” Flores said. “Those hard feelings are part of the process, too, and they’re just as valid.”
Flores’ journey is grounded in faith and the love of her family. As she navigated the uncertainty of cancer, the strength she drew from those closest to her remained a guiding light.
“I would say that my faith has become a lot stronger through my church and that relationship with God and my family,” Flores said. “When I was diagnosed, my daughter had just turned a year old, and she brought me a lot of strength. She kept my feet grounded and kept me here on earth instead of elsewhere.”For more on Sarah Flores and her inspiring journey, you can follow her on LinkedIn here.
