Smith, who has been with ESPN since 1997, has been one of the company’s most outstanding reporters, being able to over a wide variety of subjects and events. With her most difficult assignment staring her in the face, Smith has handled the disease like the true professional she is.

On Thursday, Smith shared an empowering photo of the process of her hair getting shaved off by renowned Los Angeles barber Chuck Taylor.

Ed Werder, one of her longtime colleagues provided the perfect response.