“I’m FLAT, FABULOUS, RADIANT, and just a little LOOPY! My name is Lisa, I’m 51 years old, and I’ve been riding the roller coaster called Stage 2B Grade 3 Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma (MpBC).”
In August 2019, my world changed with a diagnosis of metaplastic breast carcinoma — a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that accounts for fewer than 1% of all breast cancer cases. Unlike more common types, metaplastic breast cancer can grow larger, spread through the bloodstream, and often behaves differently under the microscope.
Mine transformed into squamous cells, the kind typically found in the body’s major organs. To make my diagnosis even more complex, I was also triple-negative (TNBC) — but with a worse prognosis and no standardized treatment guidelines available specifically for MpBC. That uncertainty was terrifying, yet I refused to lose hope.
Metaplastic breast cancer starts off resembling typical breast cancer but evolves into different types of cells — making it harder to treat. My medical team was honest with me from the beginning: the road would be long and uncertain.
On August 16, 2019, surrounded by my family, I learned that the outlook wasn’t bright. Still, my doctors promised to do everything possible to fight this cancer — and they did. After 16 months of intense chemotherapy, a bilateral mastectomy, and radiation, I am grateful to say I am NED — No Evidence of Disease.
From the moment I was diagnosed, I knew I would not pursue reconstruction. I chose an aesthetic flat closure — and I’ve never regretted it. I love the freedom it brings. I feel strong, authentic, and alive. My scars tell my story, and I wear them with pride.
Life after breast cancer hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned to embrace every twist and turn of the ride. I choose to live boldly and unapologetically.
“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”
— Coco Chanel
My scars are symbols of survival. I chose to smile, laugh, and surround myself with love. Every day is a celebration of resilience and authenticity. I truly believe we become who we choose to be — and I choose to be FLAT, FABULOUS, RADIANT, and just a little LOOPY.
Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MpBC) is one of the rarest and most aggressive subtypes of breast cancer, often misdiagnosed or misunderstood. Raising awareness is essential to improve research, clinical understanding, and treatment options for this rare disease.
Learn Look Locate is committed to shining a light on metaplastic breast cancer through survivor stories, medically vetted education, and resources that help women feel informed and supported every step of the way.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with metaplastic breast cancer, you are not alone. Visit our educational pages to learn more about:
Together, through education and compassion, we can create greater awareness and hope for those facing rare breast cancer diagnoses.
Lisa’s journey of embracing her flat, fabulous, and radiant life after Stage 2B Grade 3 Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma is a powerful reminder that courage and authenticity can transform even the hardest moments into a life filled with meaning.
Learn Look Locate is honored to share Lisa’s story as part of our mission to educate, empower, and connect people around the world through medically vetted information and survivor-led inspiration.
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