Pay it forward: associate finds strength through health journey

Maria Muñoz, a payment solutions advocate at Bread Financial®, went in for a routine health checkup in January 2023. But with one phone call, her world changed overnight after learning a lump in her breast was stage 2 cancer. 

Soon after her diagnosis, Maria found herself navigating the challenges and side effects of cancer treatment, all while balancing a busy work schedule, care of her two children, new financial burdens and her mental health. Despite support from family and coworkers, she couldn’t help but feel the need to put on a brave face. 

“It felt I had to put my emotions and feelings on the back burner while everything in life was still going on,” said Maria. “It was hard being present for our customers and pretending like nothing was going on with me.” 

While adjusting to the demands of treatment, Maria worked with her team at Bread Financial to set reduced hours before ultimately applying for short-term disability benefits.  

Hoping to ease her financial stress, a coworker told Maria about Help Right Here, an associate-to-associate giving program that provides financial assistance to eligible associates facing qualifying unforeseen disasters and personal hardships. Soon after, Maria applied for and received a grant from the fund to offset medical expenses and essential living costs during her treatment. 

“We have insurance, but you still have some financial responsibility,” said Maria. “I had to put money down for treatments each week. Having that financial assistance was a huge weight off my shoulders.”  

While she was away from work, Maria felt immense support from her peers and leaders, which helped her heal from surgery and numerous radiation and chemotherapy treatments.   

“When Maria was diagnosed, her first concern was her two boys and how treatment would affect them, as well as the impact on her new career,” said Catherine Mills, payment solutions specialist. “We let her know we had her back and that beating cancer and caring for her family was her priority. While there were many ups and downs, she faced each day with courage and determination.” 

After six months of treatment, Maria was able to return to work. Two years later, she has completed treatment and is celebrating milestones like clear scans and hair regrowth. For her birthday, she plans to get her first haircut since her diagnosis.  

“Looking back, I think ‘wow, that was two years ago?’” said Maria. “The years go by quickly, but I try to give myself praise for everything I went through.” 

During her time away, Maria was deeply grateful for the emotional support from her colleagues and the financial assistance provided by Help Right Here. Currently, Bread Financial associates are encouraged to donate to Help Right Here during the company’s annual Giving Campaign. Spanning two weeks, associates are able to donate to a cause that is important to them, including Help Right Here, with a company match. 

“Cancer has no face, no name, until it happens to you,” said Maria. “It happens to the most unexpected people. Help Right Here truly makes a difference, supporting our associates with whatever life throws at them.”