Meet Kelly: A Journey of Strength and Resilience Through Stage 2B Breast Cancer

How Self-Advocacy and Courage Transformed Kelly’s Life

My life was good in 2017. I was married to the perfect man, enjoyed time with family and a few close friends, fly-fished often, and had my dream job working in the world of oncology. Early November I had my annual (3D) mammogram and doctor’s visit. All was good.

Just three weeks after my annual exam in November 2017, I found a lump during my monthly self-check. Although I had lumps prior, this one felt different—the size of a pea and harder than the past. Knowing my parents both had survived cancer, my doctor fast-tracked me in to see her again. The next week was a blur: ultrasound, another mammogram, biopsy, followed by the call from a nurse saying those three words nobody ever wants to hear: “You have cancer.” That day changed my life, but little did I know the gift it was to be. They estimated my tumor to be 5 cm in diameter on December 10. I had HR+ HER2- invasive ductal carcinoma. Being in healthcare and around oncology clinics daily, I was confident I could navigate my journey. I was wrong.

The Importance of Self-Advocacy

Before I start telling the rest of my story, I want to say every journey is different. You will have difficult days and many challenges thrown at you—these will most likely NOT be the same as mine or any other patient. I share my story to help others understand the importance of self-advocacy, patient choice, and building a relationship with your doctor.

Making My Own Decisions

My next step was to see a medical oncologist, who said promptly, “We will do a lumpectomy, radiation, and tamoxifen.” I’m pretty sure I laughed and said, “WE?? No, WE won’t be doing that.” (This should have been my sign to find a new oncologist.) I had done my research and, combined with my family history and my tendency to worry about things too much, I had already made my decision. It was MY decision to make. My oncologist’s role was to provide me with my options, which never happened.

Thirty-five days after my MRI, I opted for a double mastectomy direct to implant. My tumor had grown to 2.5 cm (which I learned was not normal), and they found minimal cells in my sentinel node. My oncologist said I would not benefit from radiation or chemo but must start tamoxifen and be on it for 7–10 years.

Navigating Treatments and Challenges

Six months on tamoxifen was enough for me—side effects included bone/joint pain, fogginess, and weight gain. I did my research, removed my ovaries to throw myself into menopause, and started an aromatase inhibitor. During this same surgery, my plastic surgeon made some “tweaks” to my new breasts. Around that time, my implants were recalled due to some women developing breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. This is rare, but something new to watch. I had one more surgery (three total) on my breasts since then, and there are no flags as to lymphoma risk. My new medication caused osteopenia, and I have now added an infusion every six months.

The good news is I had a breast cancer index run on my tissue, which shows I would only benefit from the aromatase inhibitor for five years, which will be 2023…and the countdown begins.

Finding the Right Support

The day I fired my medical oncologist, I sat with a dear friend during one of her chemo sessions. This sweet man came in to check on her—he was kind, thoughtful, and really listened to my friend’s concerns. This was truly an “A-HA” moment for me. What was I doing with a doctor who was on her own agenda and showed zero empathy?! I never looked back.

Kelly’s Advice to New Patients

• ALWAYS get a second opinion—any great doctor will welcome this.

• Have a relationship with your oncologist—they will be your coach through the years.

• Assemble an army of family and friends to help—and don’t be afraid to ask for help!

I learned these lessons the hard way, and I should have known better. My story is unique to me. Cancer did not beat me and does not define me, but because of cancer, I am now better at my job, I have eliminated negative influences from my life, I have dedicated time to helping others, and I have a deeper relationship with my husband and loved ones.

A Message from Learn Look Locate

At Learn Look Locate, Kelly’s courageous battle against breast cancer touches our hearts deeply. We are honored to share her story, offering a platform for survivors to come together, learn, and find solace in one another’s experiences. Through our diverse range of resources, including Kelly’s survivor narrative, our mission is to empower individuals at every phase of their cancer journey. We proudly stand by Kelly and all those who demonstrate remarkable courage, celebrating their strength and reminding the world that hope shines brightest, even amidst life’s greatest trials.