Tell us about your journey.
I was diagnosed in October 2023. I had a clean Mammogram in April 2023. But while on a trip with my son in October, I noticed a painful lump in my right breast that I had not felt before. As a Nurse Practitioner, I knew that time was of the essence. I contacted my doctor and was seen the next week. The mammogram was positive for a new mass. Because of the holidays, physicians vacations , two-week waiting times for tests, scans and biopsies, my surgery was scheduled for January 2024. Biopsies showed IDC.
What was your first thought when diagnosed?
As a woman, and a healthcare provider, you always worry about the possibility of getting cancer. I honestly knew when I felt the lump, that it was likely cancer. It is at that point in your life when you truly feel mortal. But my first thoughts were of my children and the parts of their lives, and the lives of my grandchildren, that I would miss. Those are the thoughts that truly bring you to your knees.
Tell us about your journey
Unfortunately, my surgeon was diagnosed with cancer himself and had to cancel my surgery. But, because I had fellow nurse friends who were going through their own cancer battles, I was able to get in to see Dr. Lauren Strickland who was able to do my surgery just one day later than originally scheduled!
Her and her staff were a godsend, given all the delays I had already had. I had surgery on January 4th 2024. Pathology showed not only IDC, but DCIS was surrounding the original tumor, and the margins were not clear. I also had a 400cc post-op hematoma. I went back to surgery 7 days later for re-excision and hematoma evacuation. Luckily, new pathology had clear margins. I was also lucky enough to have a low Oncogenic score, so no chemotherapy, just Radiation and Aromatase Inhibitors.
The first two oncologists that I saw moved away from Redding, so I was able to be referred to Dr. Nicole Whitlatch in Chico. She is amazing!
What is your most vivid memory of your cancer journey?
The most vivid memory I have of my cancer journey is the myriad of coworkers and fellow healthcare providers, along with my family, that lifted me up and gave me the courage to go through this journey! My family, of course, has been amazing! But there is comfort in knowing that you’re not alone in this battle!
What would you share with someone else who is on this journey?
I can never stress enough, how important it is to do self exams, get your mammograms, and to listen to your body! They always tell you that cancer doesn’t hurt, which is not true. Also, when you are presented with a care plan, trust that you know what is best for you!