TAMPA, (Oct. 15, 2025) – In the face of adversity, some individuals possess an innate ability to confront challenges head-on, transforming moments of vulnerability into opportunities for growth and resilience.
 
Kelly Dreyfuss, Special Assistant to the Head Coach for USF Volleyball, embodies this spirit.
 
Her journey through a breast cancer diagnosis is a testament to her strength, courage, and unwavering determination.
 
THE INITIAL SHOCK
 
In June 2020, Dreyfuss discovered a small, hard lump in her breast.
 
Despite being given a clean bill of health from routine mammograms, she followed her instincts and scheduled a mammogram the next day.
 
The diagnosis in July confirmed her worst fears — she had breast cancer.
 
The initial shock was undeniable, but Dreyfuss quickly transitioned from self-pity to problem-solving.
 
"What's next?" she asked herself, eager to embrace the path to recovery.
 
A ROUTINE YET CHALLENGING TREATMENT
 
Dreyfuss's treatment journey was marked by routine procedures for her specific type of cancer, known as DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ).
 
With the cancer cells residing in her milk ducts, a mastectomy was the recommended course of action.
 
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dreyfuss was fortunate to undergo surgery in August 2020, a little over a month after her diagnosis.
 
The physical and emotional challenges of living with one breast were significant, but Dreyfuss approached them with her characteristic resilience.
 
The healing process, however, proved to be more difficult.
 
Painful drains and spitting stitches were a constant reminder of her battle.
 
Yet, Dreyfuss remained determined to overcome these obstacles and emerge stronger than ever.
 
THE POWER OF A SUPPORT NETWORK
 
Throughout her journey, Dreyfuss learned that she couldn't do it all on her own.
 
Surrounded by a village of support, including her husband, son, parents, in-laws, friends, and a mentor who had battled breast cancer twice, Dreyfuss found solace in the love and care of her community.
 
"One thing I learned is that when you go through something like this, it's not something you can do on your own," Dreyfuss said. "I had to open myself up for help, and fortunately, I was surrounded by an incredible village."
 
BREAST CANCER ADVOCATE
 
Today, Dreyfuss is proud to call herself a survivor, having recently reached the five-year cancer-free mark.
 
However, her journey doesn't end there.
 
Dreyfuss is committed to being an advocate for breast cancer awareness, sharing her story to educate and empower others.
 
"My cancer was growing in me for a really long time, and I had to be my own advocate to make sure I was getting the right type of testing," Dreyfuss explained. "Part of my job as a survivor now is helping to educate young women and men and doing my best to help spread the awareness."
 
A NEW PERSPECTIVE
 
Dreyfuss's battle with cancer has also reshaped her view on health and wellness.
 
With no genetic markers for cancer, she recognizes the importance of managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
 
Her diagnosis served as a wake-up call, reminding her to be diligent in taking care of her body and mind.
 
"I try very hard to manage my stress nowadays and get enough sleep because your body needs it to recover," Dreyfuss said. "I also try to eat a lot better than I used to. I like to think that I did eat pretty healthy before I was diagnosed, but I try to eat even healthier now."
 
Dreyfuss's relationships with family and friends have remained strong throughout her journey, but she acknowledges the profound impact of a newfound friendship with her mother's close friend, Gwen.
 
Gwen, who became a mother figure to Dreyfuss during her battle, offered unwavering support and guidance, strengthening their bond in the face of adversity.
 
LIFELONG JOURNEY
 
As a cancer survivor, Dreyfuss understands that the journey doesn't end with remission.
 
She remains committed to staying diligent and taking care of her body, knowing that cancer is a lifelong battle.
 
Her experiences have taught her the importance of being her own advocate, knowing her family history, and staying on top of necessary tests and screenings.
 
Dreyfuss's story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that resides within all of us.
 
Her journey through breast cancer is not just a personal triumph but a testament to the power of community, advocacy, and the unwavering spirit of a survivor.
 
On Friday, the Bulls will host the Charlotte 49ers for their annual Breast Cancer Awareness match. The Bulls will wear their pink jerseys and will honor Breast Cancer survivors between sets two and three. The match is set for 6 p.m.

Tickets
Fans can purchase women's volleyball tickets by calling 1-800-GoBulls or at USFBullsTix.com. The 2025 Olympic Pass can be purchased here.
 
Follow
Be sure to follow USF women's volleyball on social media (X / Instagram / Facebook) and visit GoUSFBulls.com for the most up-to-date information. 
 
About USF Volleyball
Head coach Jolene Shepardson enters her sixth season at the helm of her alma mater in 2025. Named head coach on January 8, 2020, Shepardson led the Bulls to a conference championship and the program's last NCAA tournament appearance as a student-athlete in 2002. South Florida won the 2024 AAC regular-season title, earning Jolene Shepardson her first Coach of the Year Honor. In 2023, the Bulls won the AAC East Division title, made a postseason appearance in the NIVC, won three matches, and advanced to the Fab Four to mark the longest postseason run in program history. South Florida Volleyball has won eight Player of the Year honors, most recently in Maria Clara Andrade in 2024. The Bulls have also had four Setter of the Year honors, most recently in Caroline Dykes in 2024. South Florida has made seven NCAA Tournament appearances and won 13 conference titles since its inception in 1972. The Bulls play in The Corral (1,000), located adjacent to the Yuengling Center on the USF campus in Tampa.
 

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