Dee’s Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer Story
Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal
Dee was diagnosed with stage 3 invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) at 31, which later progressed to stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Her initial symptoms began in 2017 when she experienced pain in her left breast while breastfeeding, followed by the discovery of a large lump. Despite persistent pain, she was initially dismissed by doctors due to her age and the assumption that breast pain was not a sign of cancer. After advocating for herself and undergoing an ultrasound through a private hospital, she was finally diagnosed.
Dee underwent a challenging treatment plan, starting with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (AC-T), a bilateral mastectomy, and radiotherapy. She experienced severe side effects, such as radiation burns and a painful capsular contracture around the implant. During her treatment, Dee struggled with identity loss and was later diagnosed with PTSD. She tried to return to normalcy too quickly, which led to further health complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization.
Despite setbacks, Dee rebuilt her life, focusing on her mental health and making significant lifestyle changes. In 2023, Dee learned her cancer had metastasized to her bones. However, she maintained a positive mindset and adapted well to new treatments, including targeted therapy with ribociclib. Dee continues to embrace life fully, cherishing time with her children and finding support through an online cancer community.
- Name: Dee D.
- Diagnosis:
- Breast Cancer
- Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
- ER+
- Staging:
- Stage 4
- Symptoms:
- Inability to produce milk on the left breast while breastfeeding
- Breast pain (palpable and radiating to the back)
- Lumps in the breast and armpit
- Treatments:
- Chemotherapy: AC-T
- Surgery: bilateral mastectomy and axillary lymph node clearance
- Radiotherapy
- Hormone therapy: Zoladex (goserelin)
- Aromatase inhibitor: letrozole
- Targeted therapy: Kisqali (ribociclib)
This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for treatment decisions.
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