Hi, my name is Tyrrea, and I am a stage 0 breast cancer survivor from Philadelphia. As I welcomed the New Year, I found myself deeply grateful for the events of 2020, a year that changed my life in ways I never expected.
In February 2020, while performing a self breast exam, I noticed a small lump that felt like a pebble. I took note of it but didn’t panic. A few weeks later, I checked again and realized it felt slightly larger—about the size of the tip of my index finger.
Even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was able to see my doctor, who immediately took action. On July 15, 2020, at the age of 43, I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), micro-invasive, grade 3, stage 0.
DCIS means that cancer cells were present in the milk ducts of my breast but had not spread into the surrounding breast tissue. I chose to undergo a partial mastectomy, and lymph nodes were removed to ensure the cancer had not spread.
My surgery was successful. The cancer had not spread, and six weeks of radiation were recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence in my right breast.
Before my diagnosis, I spent so much time trying to control every aspect of my life—worrying about tomorrow and what the future might hold. Hearing the words “it’s cancer” brought a flood of emotions, and I allowed myself the space to feel them fully.
Once that wave passed, something shifted.
I began to move through this experience with gratitude. I let go of the things I couldn’t control—and even the things I thought I could. I came to understand that God is ultimately in control. I stopped dwelling on the past and dreaming about the future and instead learned to stay present. I also released the weight of carrying everyone else’s burdens.
I leaned deeply into my faith, and with God’s guidance, along with the love and support of my family and close friends, I made it through one of the most challenging times of my life.
Today, I am truly grateful—grateful for God’s timing, grace, mercy, and healing. I am grateful for my doctors and every person who supported me throughout this journey. I am grateful for my family and friends who never allowed me to feel alone, even during COVID.
I now move through each day with gratitude.
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
— Melody Beattie
— Tyrrea
Q1. What is stage 0 breast cancer (DCIS)?
A: Stage 0 breast cancer, also known as DCIS, means abnormal cells are found in the milk ducts but have not spread into surrounding tissue.
Q2. Can a self breast exam detect breast cancer?
A: Yes. Self breast exams can help individuals notice changes and seek medical evaluation early.
Q3. Is radiation common after a partial mastectomy for DCIS?
A: Radiation is often recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery.
Q4. How can faith help during a breast cancer diagnosis?
A: Faith can provide strength, peace, and perspective during uncertainty and healing.
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