If you know Sharon, you know her smile arrives before she does—radiant, genuine, and always paired with a sparkle in her eye. When Sharon and her husband, Kurt, chose to retire in McMinnville in 2019, the town didn’t just gain two new residents—it gained light. Her warmth and generosity quickly became part of the community’s heartbeat.

From the unwavering dedication Soroptimist International to Elks Club and McMinnville Chamber, Sharon poured her energy into countless organizations, always with the goal of making McMinnville better, brighter, and more connected. Her spirit is magnetic—people are drawn to her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering belief in community.

But even the brightest lights can face shadows.

Over time, Sharon began noticing subtle changes in her breasts—mainly unexplained leakage. She knew something wasn’t right. Despite clear results from self-exams, a routine mammogram, and even a diagnostic mammogram, Sharon felt something was wrong. Trusting her instincts, she pushed for further evaluation and was referred to a surgeon to investigate a possible duct issue. During her consultation, Dr. Katie Johnson ordered an ultrasound. It was then that Sharon’s intuition was confirmed—a lump was found. Dr. Johnson performed surgery to remove it, and a biopsy followed. The diagnosis: breast cancer.

In that moment, fear and resolve met face to face.

With the unwavering support of her husband, her two daughters, and a circle of close friends, Sharon made the courageous decision to undergo a double mastectomy. It was a choice rooted in strength, love, and hope.

What struck me most during our conversation was the way Sharon spoke about her choice and the surgeon she chose, Dr. Katie Johnson and Willamette Valley Medical Center. “I was very lucky—very, very blessed,” Sharon said. “This was a scary, life-changing moment, and Dr. Johnson walked into my room with the biggest smile. She hugged me and said, ‘I’m here for you. You’re going to be okay.’ And I was calm. She saw me—not just a patient, not just an appointment. Her smile, her hug… I am so very blessed.” She continued, “The system, the hospital—I love that place. Every person, loved me, cared for me, I will not go anywhere else for care.”

Sharon speaks openly and honestly about her health journey—not to dwell on the pain, but to offer hope. Her story is one of courage, advocacy, and the power of community. She doesn’t shy away from the hard parts. Instead, she shares them with grace, helping others feel less alone in their own battles.

Back in the heart of McMinnville, Sharon is once again a familiar face—smiling at everyone she passes, offering hugs without hesitation, and showing up wherever she’s needed. Whether it’s volunteering, lending a listening ear, or simply being present, Sharon continues to give back to the town that embraced her.

Her experience has deepened her empathy and strengthened her resolve. She’s become a quiet warrior for others facing breast cancer as part of a support group at With Courage, reminding them that fear is real—but so is hope. And that sometimes, healing begins with a smile, a hug, and someone who truly sees you.