A Story of Strength: Lauren's Breast Cancer Journey

As October draws to a close, we couldn't let Breast Cancer Awareness Month pass without sharing something deeply personal with our Frogs Snails and Fairy Tales family.

If you've ever booked a party or came in for open play during the week, you most likely have met Lauren. She keeps everything running smoothly so the kids can have a wonderful time at our space. And what many don't know is that Lauren has been on a journey that none of us ever want to take, but one that has shown us just how remarkable she truly is.

Earlier this year, Lauren went in for her routine mammogram - the kind of appointment we all schedule and sometimes dread, but know we need to do. This time, something showed up. A biopsy was ordered, and the results came back: cancer.

At first, the scans suggested it was small. Lauren wasn't too worried - it seemed manageable, caught early, like these screenings are designed to do. But as anyone who's faced this diagnosis knows, the journey that follows is never simple. Lauren made the decision to have a double mastectomy, followed by chemotherapy, and is now beginning radiation treatment. Her journey is far from over, but through it all, she's maintained something that inspires everyone around her: hope.

If you've met Lauren at our space - greeted by her warm smile, helped by her patient guidance, or simply brightened by her positive energy - you'd never know what she's facing. She shows up every day with the same joy and dedication to our customers, never letting her struggle dim her light. It's a powerful reminder that we're all walking our own healing journeys, often invisible to those around us.

"I am feeling good now and keeping a positive outlook," Lauren shares. And that's exactly who she is - resilient, optimistic, and thinking of others even during her own challenge.

Lauren has a message she wants to share with everyone: Get your yearly mammogram. Early detection saved her life, and it could save yours too. That routine screening, the one that's easy to put off or skip, made all the difference.

We're incredibly grateful to have Lauren as part of our team, and we're honored that she's allowed us to share her story. She reminds us that behind every business are real people, real families, and real battles being fought with courage. And she shows us that kindness and strength can coexist beautifully.

This October, let Lauren's story be a reminder: take care of yourself, schedule that appointment, and encourage the women in your life to do the same. And maybe, show a little extra grace to everyone you meet—we never know what journey they're on.