As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The University of Texas Permian Basin is honoring one of its own, administrative assistant in the HSI-STEM Grant and Project Idea department, Priscilla Badillo, who recently began a courageous journey following her diagnosis.
Born in Crane, Badillo moved to Odessa at just three years old and has considered it home ever since. She’s been a valued member of the UTPB community since June 2022, serving the University for the past two years. But this year, her personal strength took center stage when she was diagnosed with breast cancer on July 26, just a week after her birthday. 
"I was diagnosed with Stage 2B Invasive Ductal Carcinoma ER positive," she shared. "This is the type of cancer my doctor was hoping for as it is treatable and curable, thank God."
Her journey began with a self-breast exam at home. She encourages all women to make this a regular habit.
"I cannot express how important monthly self-breast exams are,” Badilla said. “I wouldn’t have found out about my diagnosis if I hadn’t done a self-exam discovering a lump in my right breast. I encourage all women to do a monthly self-exam and have a mammogram done yearly!"
With the support of her daughter, who has been with her every step of the way, and her medical team, her treatment plan includes chemotherapy, surgery, and possibly radiation.
"My biggest strength has definitely been my family,” Badillo explained. “They have been there with me since day one of my journey, and they continue to be there for all of my tests, procedures, doctor visits, and chemotherapy infusions."
Her daughter, who battled leukemia at a young age and has been cancer-free for 20 years, has now taken on the role of caregiver—a poignant full-circle moment for the family.
"Who would've thought that 20 years later, she would be the one to take care of me?" she reflected. "I am forever grateful for her and appreciate her being there for me through everything."
The UTPB community has also provided invaluable support during this difficult time.
"I am truly blessed to work here at UTPB," she said. "I am thankful for all the calls, texts, messages, and talks about my treatment progress. They have definitely made me feel that I am not alone during my journey."
Despite the challenges of treatment and her diagnosis, she remains positive and thankful.
"I cherish every moment I have with my family and friends, and I take nothing for granted."
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, her story serves as an important reminder of the power of early detection, the importance of self-care, and the strength of family and community.
Her message to all women: Do your monthly self-exams and get your yearly mammograms—it could save your life.
If you would like to contribute to Priscilla and her family to help with medical expenses, please visit her GoFundMe site.
