One Mammogram, Two Cancers: Living with Breast and Uterine Cancer
As a nonprofit leader, educator, mentor, and creative change-maker, I have led many programs on grief, finding your silver lining, scattering joy, and embracing hope. While speaking to survivors of gynecologic cancers on choosing hope in challenging situations, I never imagined that I would soon need to follow my own advice.
In September 2024, I was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram detected several tumors. This was the beginning of what became a spiritual and educational journey, one that is full of miracles. Having been diligent about my annual mammograms due to both my mother and father having breast cancer, I was surprised by this diagnosis, especially since prior genetic testing had shown no inherited mutations that would increase my risk.
The first miracle happened after being advised that I would need a full mastectomy. However, after meeting with a Yale Medicine breast surgeon at Smilow Cancer Hospital, she informed me that I could undergo an oncoplastic reconstruction instead. This specialized surgical technique combines traditional breast cancer surgery to remove the cancer, while preserving or reconstructing the breast.
The second miracle occurred as a result of the exceptional work of Susan Higgins, MD, a radiation oncologist. She noticed something on my sternum while reviewing my MRI and pushed to have a PET scan to find out more, which led to the unexpected discovery of uterine cancer. As with my breast cancer, I had no symptoms and this likely would not have been found until it was late stage. Although radiation was deemed unnecessary due to cancerous cells found on my neck bone, which categorized me as having metastatic cancer, I will never forget Dr. Higgins and the way she made me feel like a partner in my care instead of a bystander.
I am currently taking IBRANCE, an oral medication designed to treat advanced breast cancer, in combination with an aromatase inhibitor, a hormone therapy to treat estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer. The side effects can be difficult, and include weight gain, hot flashes, sleep disruption, and hair thinning. I will most likely be on these drugs for the rest of my life, so I have learned to accept them. I keep my eye on the prize, the prize being good scans.
When I was asked if I’d be willing to participate in a clinical trial, my immediate response was, “Of course!” The study is looking at the tolerability of IBRANCE and possible dose reductions to reduce toxicities. I want to help in any way that I can and believe that I am alive because of women who came before me. When my mother was diagnosed in 1990, they had medications, but not like they have now. After her cancer spread to her bones, she only survived another six weeks.
I have utilized all available resources at Smilow Cancer Hospital, from chaplain services to support groups and nutrition consultations. Every piece has helped me along the way. My advice to others, in addition to utilizing resources, is to feel your feelings. I have felt sadness, anger, fear, and even jealousy. It is hard watching people live their normal lives and take daily activities for granted. I have worked hard to find little joys in life, and I find them every day. I am lucky to have amazing friends, and the most wonderful caregiver in my husband. Through this process I have learned to manage my fear and not let it control me.
I have since encountered many more miracles and blessings, including the unsung heroes and heroines I have met within Smilow Cancer Hospital. From front desk staff, to the technicians, and the security guards, they have all played a role in making my healing journey a positive one. I am fortunate to now have my follow-up appointments with Maryam Lustberg, MD, MPH, a Yale Medicine medical oncologist. She has truly been a guardian angel for me, and yet another miracle in my journey.
