OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT/Gray News) — In a powerful display of courage, resilience, and purpose, Starr Shampe has achieved what many would find unimaginable: earning a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling while living with stage 4 breast cancer.
Her journey began in 2018, just a month before her 28th birthday, when she received the devastating diagnosis. “It felt a little surreal,” Shampe said. “I had no idea it was going to happen.” Despite the shock, she underwent her first chemotherapy session on her birthday and never looked back.
Working full-time and navigating cancer treatment, Shampe recognized a serious gap in survivorship care—especially for those with terminal or lifelong cancer like hers. That insight fueled her decision to enroll in Bellevue University’s counseling program in 2021, aiming to become a support for others like herself.
While pursuing her degree, life didn’t slow down. She continued her treatments, got married, and faced another curveball—an unexpected pregnancy. When complications arose, Shampe delivered her son six weeks early. “He’s healthy now and has had no issues,” she said. After a brief break to recover, she resumed her studies with unwavering determination.
Support from her community played a critical role. “It felt like there was always a hug,” she shared. “Even if they weren’t physically there, I felt the love.”
On graduation day, Shampe stood proudly as the student commencement speaker, holding not only her diploma but her story of perseverance and purpose. “Never give up, there’s always a reward,” she told fellow graduates. “Feel the pain, acknowledge the obstacles—but keep going.”
Starr continues to receive treatment every three weeks. She’s now pursuing her counseling license in Illinois, where she’ll soon begin her work as a licensed professional counselor, helping others through their own struggles with a deep empathy forged by experience.
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