NASHUA — Although her battle is far from over, a school guidance counselor fighting for her life has come out on top, a place where she hopes to remain permanently.

“I am now officially considered a cancer survivor,” said Tara Veit, a 39-year-old mother of two and Nashua High School North guidance counselor.

Last fall, Veit was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, already at Stage 3, despite having regular mammograms.

Since then it has been a long road including 20 weeks of chemotherapy that ended in February. Two months later on April 9, she underwent a double mastectomy and lymph node removal to rid her body of any underlying cancer cells.

Veit says she has faced this illness one day at a time, never taking for granted her husband and two beautiful boys, ages 6 and 7, who have motivated her to keep up the fight.

It hasn't been easy, Veit siaid, explaining she lost her income after using all of her sick days. Despite the loss of a steady paycheck, Veit, of Auburn, says the community has been incredibly helpful and supportive — both emotionally and financially.

“The financial implication from such a sudden, catastrophic illness is sobering,” said Veit's sister, Alicia Harressey. “Not only was Tara unable to work since October, she had to pay for her medical insurance.”

Local teachers have organized various fundraisers for the Veit family, including spaghetti suppers, a used book drive, bake sales, denim day, a Hat-A-Thon, jewelry and pottery sales.

Having the school community rally behind Veit during her time of need has been exceptional, she said, adding it is a blessing to be able to work next to such caring individuals.

Veit understands that her journey has not yet concluded, as she still has nearly six weeks of radiation to begin this summer. And, she is still recovering from the surgery, trying to regain full range of motion in her arms, shoulders and chest.

But she is full of optimism since pathology reports indicate there are no more cancer cells.

“The radiation is kind of like insurance, just making sure that the remaining lymph nodes don't have any hidden cancer cells,” explained Veit. “I feel good, and I am getting stronger everyday. I know that at least the radiation won't be as bad as the chemo.”

She is looking forward to spending the summer with her family before resuming her duties at the high school this fall. Veit says she is anxious to get back to her job and the many students that depend on her for guidance.

Veit also plans on attending Nashua North's graduation next month, saying she wouldn't miss it for the world.

Harressey is in the process of organizing another fundraising event for her sister, Veit's Fight Night on June 29 at The Derryfield in Manchester.

“The support from the community is heartwarming and generous,” said Harressey. “Not only have businesses been donating, but people have contacted me to offer any help they can.”

Tickets for Veit's Fight Night are $20, and can be purchased by contacting Harressey at 644-3307 or aharressey@comcast.net.

There will be a cash bar, disc jockey, live auction, raffles and a performance by the Manchester Wolves cheerleaders.