For Cypress Ranch cosmetology students, reality hit when one of their beloved teachers Ms. Edna Torres de Leon was diagnosed with breast cancer for a second time in October 2024. The news sent a strong wave of concern across students as a reminder that cancer can hit anyone regardless of their background.
On Oct. 9, her students wore pink in support of her battle with breast cancer. This disease causes abnormal cells to grow and turn into tumors.
“I was so surprised and deeply touched,” Ms. Torres said. “I felt a wave of emotions, excitement, gratitude, and I even cried tears of joy. It meant so much to know that I’m surrounded by so much love and support. I want to thank all of them for the love, the beautiful gifts and the flowers. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
For years, many people knew Ms. Torres for her radiating and infectious energy and strength. However, when cancer hit, Ms. Torres showed a different kind of strength. With her cancer diagnosis, she demonstrated her love for teaching. She comes in whenever she can to help students pursue their future in cosmetology.
Cancer has impacted her life in so many ways since her diagnosis in 2018 and its recurrence in 2024. It has been incredibly difficult to process everything, especially when going through treatments like radiation and chemotherapy, Ms. Torres said. Now with a new cancer mutation, she had to begin a much stronger medication, bringing its own challenges. She said every day is a struggle, but she keeps going.
While dealing with cancer, Ms. Torres has strengthened her relationship with God, placing him as her top priority. Her faith in Jehovah has helped her endure her battle with cancer but also has been her strength through every challenge in her life. She has stayed dedicated to maintaining a positive mindset to become a good example for the ones she loves, focusing on encouraging and supporting them to watch them succeed.
She said seeing her students inspires her every day to keep pushing. She credits a lot of her motivation to her family and fellow cosmetology teacher Ms. Nicole Brooks, who has shown love and support during her battle with cancer.
Ms. Torres offers a powerful message and story that shows she is not just a teacher but also a symbol of hope and resilience.
