Shalon’s Inspiring BRCA2 Breast Cancer Journey

Discovering the BRCA2 Mutation: BRCA2 Multifocal Stage 1A

My journey began nine years ago when I found out that I had inherited the BRCA2 gene mutation. Cancer had already impacted my family deeply—my mother and my aunt were diagnosed with cancer just three months apart, and both tested positive for the BRCA2 gene. My mother faced stage 2 ovarian cancer, while my aunt was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. Thankfully, both survived, and today they are living their best lives.

Taking Preventative Steps

After consulting with a genetic counselor, I decided to take proactive measures to reduce my cancer risk. I underwent a prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy to prevent ovarian cancer and lower my breast cancer risk. Then I began regular surveillance on my breasts, and for seven years, all of my imaging results came back clear, except for one benign finding that required a follow-up mammogram after six months.

During this time, I saw my gynecologist, who asked me when I planned to have a prophylactic mastectomy. Though the question caught me off guard, I knew it was something I needed to consider seriously, even though I wasn’t ready just yet.

Facing the Unexpected Diagnosis

I eventually decided to consult with a breast surgeon about the possibility of prophylactic surgery. The surgeon ordered additional imaging, and five areas of concern were detected. After three biopsies, I received the news: all three were cancerous. I had one small focus of DCIS in my left breast and two small stage 1 tumors in my right breast—one HER2/neu positive and the other hormone receptor positive.

The Treatment Journey

My treatment plan involved 12 rounds of Taxol combined with Herceptin and Perjeta (THP). Unfortunately, my journey was fraught with complications. After my first round of treatment, I became violently ill due to Campylobacter, which led my doctors to drop Perjeta from my regimen and pause treatment for two weeks. When I resumed treatment, I had an anaphylactic reaction to Taxol and was switched to Abraxane instead.

As I approached my seventh round of treatment, I experienced severe neuropathy, which led my oncologist to order an ultrasound to assess the tumors. To our relief, neither of the tumors was visible. At that point, I made the decision to move forward with a double mastectomy.

The Double Mastectomy and Aftermath

The double mastectomy was performed, and the final pathology results showed a complete pathological response (pCR) for the HER2/neu tumor. The hormone-positive tumor was still present but was successfully removed, with clear margins and no lymph node involvement.

However, the surgery did not go without complications. During the mastectomy, I hemorrhaged, experienced dangerously low blood pressure, and had to undergo emergency surgery to stop the bleeding. I also required a blood transfusion, which led to a long and challenging recovery.

Moving Forward with Resilience

Despite the obstacles, I completed a full year of Herceptin and am now on endocrine therapy, aiming for five years of treatment. It has been a long and difficult road, but I am incredibly thankful to be disease-free today. I share my story with the hope of inspiring others to face their challenges with courage and resilience.

A Message from Learn Look Locate

At Learn Look Locate, Shalon’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 Shalon’s survivor narrative, our mission is to empower individuals at every phase of their cancer journey. We proudly stand by Shalon’s and all those who demonstrate remarkable courage, celebrating their strength and reminding the world that hope shines brightest, even amidst life’s greatest trials.