Just before my 32nd birthday, I was diagnosed with Stage 2, triple-positive invasive ductal carcinoma (breast cancer). A few months before my diagnosis, I noticed a pain in my breast — something I brushed off as just an uncomfortable bra. I mentioned it to my OBGYN, who wasn’t overly concerned, but I pushed for a mammogram and ultrasound. Unfortunately, the orders got lost between healthcare systems, which delayed everything. When the imaging finally came through, it was abnormal. A biopsy confirmed I had a malignant 2 cm tumor.
I actually feel lucky that the tumor caused me pain since most don’t, and that pain is what pushed me to seek answers. The diagnosis stage was tough. My tumor size sat right between Stage 1 and Stage 2, and doctors disagreed on whether to treat more aggressively or take a lighter approach. I chose the more conservative, aggressive route, opting for a heavier chemotherapy regimen. So far, I’m glad I did — I’m four rounds into six rounds of chemo, and at my last appointment, my tumor was too small for my doctor to even measure.
Once chemo is complete, I’ll have surgery to remove whatever is left of the tumor, followed by radiation. I’ve also been undergoing fertility preservation treatments to save embryos, since chemo is likely to affect my chances of having children naturally. This journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m pushing forward.
Rachel’s LifeList:
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A trip with her husband