Tag: Breast Biomarker Story

Finding Strength Through Art: Nicole’s Stage 4 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Experience

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date October 28, 2025
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October 28, 2025

Finding Strength Through Art: Nicole’s Stage 4 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Experience

When Nicole was diagnosed with stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer, her world shifted overnight. A jewelry artist, Nicole saw cancer as an unexpected chapter in her human experience. What began as strange “zapping” sensations in her chest quickly revealed a life-threatening reality. After pushing for timely appointments and a rushed mammogram, Nicole learned not only that she had breast cancer but that it had already spread to her liver.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Nicole’s strength lies not only in her resilience but also in her creativity. For over a decade, she has poured her energy into hand-carved jewelry design, using wax carving as a meditative process to find calm through chaos. Even during intense chemotherapy and through treatment fatigue, she continued creating, transforming her pain into purpose. Eventually, after targeted therapy she began showing results. Nicole underwent a mastectomy with aesthetic flat closure, marking both physical and emotional healing milestones.

Nicole’s experience was far from easy. Her first chemotherapy regimen failed, her tumor grew, and she endured infection and significant pain. But she dug deep and proactively self-advocated. She insisted on faster diagnostic testing and remaining deeply engaged in her care, which proved to be lifesaving. Her story underscores how listening to one’s intuition can be critical in the world of complex oncology.

Now responding well to treatment, Nicole continues chemo alongside complementary therapies like hyperbaric oxygen sessions and lymphatic drainage. She also channels her energy into advocacy and is preparing to attend the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium as a patient representative. Through her art and voice, she reminds others that stage 4 breast cancer is not a death sentence, but a test of perspective, perseverance, and the power of hope.

Watch Nicole’s video and read the transcript of her interview below. Her story will show you how:

Self-advocacy can mean the difference between early treatment and missed opportunity
Creativity can become a form of healing and grounding during illness
Treatments for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer are improving every year
Transformation is possible through both physical healing and renewed purpose
Trusting your intuition when something feels wrong is powerful

Name: Nicole B.
Diagnosis:
- Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (Metastatic)
Age at Diagnosis:
- 42
Staging:
- Stage 4
Mutations:
- BRCA1 and PTEN
Symptoms:
- Appearance of lumps in breast and liver
- Electric shock-like sensations in breast
- Fatigue
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgeries: installation of chemotherapy port, mastectomy with flat aesthetic closure
- Targeted therapy: antibody-drug conjugate
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
- Lymphatic drainage

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Transcript of Nicole’s Interview

My name is Nicole
Discovering my passion for jewelry
When I first noticed that something was wrong
Scheduling the mammogram
The waiting game
The diagnosis: stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer
Beginning treatment and facing complications
I recently had a mastectomy
Continuing treatment and finding hope
How creativity keeps me alive
Stage 4 is not a death sentence
What I want others to know

My name is Nicole

My name is Nicole. I have stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer. I was diagnosed earlier in 2025.

Cancer was the unexpected part of my human experience, as it is for most people. I’m a fine jewelry designer, and I make primarily engagement rings in 14- and 18-karat gold. I started my business in 2012, and it has evolved since then. I work from home and live with my wonderful partner, Eric, and his son. I love art and nature. I’m a bit of a homebody and enjoy watching films.

Discovering my passion for jewelry

I attended SAIC in Chicago and earned my degree in Visual Communications, focusing on graphic design. After a major surgery, I left that field and began making jewelry for myself—something hands-on to balance the project management aspect of my job. Over time, as I took more classes and gained more experience, my work evolved into whimsical, nature-inspired, hand-carved pieces.

A loss in my life pushed me to fully embrace that artistic style, even though I thought people might find it “weird.” Fortunately, my clients loved it.

For years, I focused on mastering technique. I learned the rules so that I could break them. Hand-carved jewelry uses jeweler’s wax, a harder, plasticized wax. I carve the wax to create models that go through a casting process where the wax is burned away and replaced by gold.

Working in wax is forgiving; you can fix mistakes. If you carve directly in gold and make a mistake, you have to scrap the whole thing. This process allows me to create sculptural, textured, and expressive work.

When I first noticed that something was wrong

In February 2025, I went to the Tucson Gem Show with my best friend, Lindsay. Right before the trip, after my period, I noticed a strange pain when my seatbelt touched my chest. It felt like a shock or zap. I thought it might be a cyst because I have dense breast tissue and have had cysts before.

But over the trip, I felt more zapping and tingling sensations. They didn’t feel normal. When I returned home, I saw my gynecologist. The lump had grown, and during the exam, he became visibly concerned. He said there was even a temperature difference between my breasts and ordered an urgent diagnostic mammogram.

Scheduling the mammogram

Getting scheduled was difficult. I had to advocate fiercely for myself because appointments were booked months out. Once I finally got in, the mammogram tech kept assuring me it was probably nothing. But deep down, I knew something was wrong.

During the ultrasound, the radiologist quickly returned and requested a rush biopsy. While they couldn’t confirm cancer yet, it was clear they suspected it.

The waiting game

Waiting for results was the hardest part. I cried often. I couldn’t sleep, and I was physically and mentally exhausted long before treatment began. Friends told me that waiting is one of the hardest parts, and they were right.

I went through a lot of cognitive dissonance. I had a hard time sleeping. I cried a lot because I was scared.

The diagnosis: stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer

I received a call within 24 hours of my biopsy. The doctor used the phrase “malignant neoplasm,” but didn’t say the word “cancer.” I had to push for answers. They wouldn’t yet tell me the type, but scheduled me for oncology appointments weeks away.

By the time I saw the surgical oncologist, the tumor had grown dramatically. Testing confirmed triple-negative breast cancer, and within weeks, a PET scan revealed it had spread to my liver and possibly my spine. That’s when I was told it was stage 4.

My doctor told me that if I hadn’t been as proactive as I had, I probably wouldn’t be alive today.

Beginning treatment and facing complications

I began chemo in April, right after my port surgery.

The first treatment didn’t work. The tumor continued to grow and became infected, landing me in the hospital for four days. It was excruciating.

Eventually, I switched to a targeted therapy, an antibody drug conjugate, and it began working quickly.

I recently had a mastectomy

Once the tumor and lymph nodes shrank, my oncologist agreed that I could undergo surgery.

On September 22, 2025, I had a mastectomy with an aesthetic flat closure. The surgical team removed 18 lymph nodes, 15 of which tested positive for cancer.

The recovery went better than I expected. My doctors were supportive, and I felt immense relief knowing the tumor was gone.

Continuing treatment and finding hope

I’m still on chemo. My doctor explained that stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer typically means lifelong treatment, but I’m responding well. I also do hyperbaric oxygen therapy and lymphatic drainage.

Even with treatment fatigue, I try to stay positive. I’ll be attending the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium as a patient advocate in December, which gives me purpose and connection.

I try to stay positive, but I will say chemo has affected my mental health so much.

How creativity keeps me alive

Creating helps me cope.

Jewelry-making is meditative; it lets me focus, breathe, and be present. Even during chemo, when fatigue and brain fog hit hard, I’ve found comfort in carving, designing, and creating meaningful pieces.

I’ve also created silver “Butterfly Portal Pendants,” symbolizing hope and transformation. I donate the proceeds to metastatic breast cancer research.

The wax carving I do is a really meditative process… when I really get into my flow, I can forget about cancer for a little bit.

Stage 4 is not a death sentence

Stage 4 breast cancer is not a death sentence. There are many subtypes, and everyone responds differently.

Treatments are getting better each year. I know women who’ve been “no evidence of disease” for over five years on their first line of treatment. I hold on to that hope.

Many women have lived beyond ten years, some even twenty-five years, with metastatic breast cancer.

What I want others to know

You are your own best advocate. Doctors are wonderful, but they don’t live in your body.

Trust your intuition. Push for answers. Seek second opinions if needed. At the end of the day, you’re the one living with the results. Empower yourself.

Thank you for sharing your story, Nicole!

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Finding Comfort: How Marissa Navigates Stage 4 BRCA2+ ILC Breast Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date October 24, 2025
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October 24, 2025

Finding Comfort: How Marissa Navigates Stage 4 BRCA2+ ILC Breast Cancer

This is Marissa’s experience with stage 4 breast cancer. She first noticed that something was wrong when she felt unusually tired, had restless legs leading to sudden painful cramps, and experienced hot flashes at night. Like any busy mom with two little kids, she brushed these symptoms off at first, until a lump in her right breast prompted her to see her doctor. After multiple scans and a biopsy, Marissa learned she had stage 2 invasive lobular carcinoma and carried the BRCA2 gene.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

At just 31, with a young family and a recent move, Marissa felt overwhelmed. She found it complicated and challenging to transition into treatment; traditional options like chemotherapy and radiation scared her, especially with all the potential side effects. Initially, she chose integrative care, hoping to support her body naturally. But nine months later, scans showed that the breast cancer had spread to her bones, elevating her to stage 4. This became a turning point; she began hormone therapy and low-dose chemo, and she saw her breast tumors shrink. Looking back, she openly shares the regret of delaying certain treatments, but she also stresses how vital it is to feel comfortable and supported in your care decisions.

Through it all, family has been Marissa’s anchor. Her mom and stepdad even moved states to help with childcare, homeschooling, and daily life, allowing her to focus on her health. Being a mom with cancer comes with heartbreaking worries, which she tries to counter by writing letters and recording her voice for her kids, but it also inspires her to cherish every moment with them. She admits some days are tough with bone aches, fatigue, and migraines, but other days are filled with laughter and gratitude.

Marissa wants others to know that metastatic breast cancer isn’t simple. Treatments work differently for everyone, and emotional support is just as important as medical care. She encourages anyone navigating a diagnosis to seek multiple opinions and choose the path that gives them peace. Comfort, whether from family, a supportive medical team, or a healing space, makes a world of difference.

Watch Marissa’s video and scroll down for the transcript of her interview to delve into:

A young mom’s journey from worrisome symptoms to a life-changing diagnosis
How one woman balances motherhood and metastatic breast cancer with grace
The emotional turning point that shifted Marissa’s treatment approach
Why comfort and community became her lifeline through stage 4 breast cancer
Marissa’s honest reflections on regret, resilience, and cherishing every moment

Name: Marissa T.
Diagnosis:
- BRCA2+ ILC (Invasive Lobular Carcinoma) Breast Cancer
Age at Diagnosis:
- 31
Staging:
- Initially stage 2, progressed to stage 4
Symptoms:
- Appearance of lump in right breast
- Significant fatigue
- Hot flashes at night
- Leg restlessness leading to sudden, unexpected leg muscle cramps
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- PARP inhibitor
- Integrative medicine

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Transcript of Marissa’s Interview

My name is Marissa
When I first noticed something was wrong
Genetic testing revealed that I have the BRCA2 gene
My treatment options were limited, so I pursued integrative care
I got a scan 9 months later. The cancer had spread
How I’m handling the side effects of chemo
The hardest challenge I’m facing
My diagnosis saved my marriage
What people don’t understand about stage 4 breast cancer
My advice to others

My name is Marissa

I was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma breast cancer last year. Which would have been February 17th, 2024.

When I first noticed something was wrong

I felt very fatigued, and I was getting hot flashes at night. My legs were restless all the time, so bad that I would pull a muscle. Just giving myself Charley horses at night. I didn’t really think too much of it. I had two small children, and I just thought this was normal. You know, being a mom of little kids and not sleeping well and all those things.

But what really topped it off was that I felt a lump in my right breast, and I had asked my husband to feel it. And he did. I said, “Does this feel normal? And he said, “No, you need to go get that checked out.”

So I went to my primary care physician, and she did a physical exam, which led to a mammogram and ultrasound. I did three of those in one visit. So it was a lot of back and forth. They had a really hard time just realizing what they were looking at. So they decided it would be better for me to get a biopsy done just to confirm if anything was going on.

So I did the biopsy a few days after my mammogram and ultrasound. The biopsy confirmed that it was a stage 2 invasive lobular carcinoma in my right breast. And then I also had some lymph nodes that tested positive as well.

Genetic testing revealed that I have the BRCA2 gene

This is how I found out that I had cancer.

My primary care physician called me on the night of February 17th. I’ll never forget it. She said, “I got your results back. It looks like you have breast cancer. But it looks like it’s in an early stage. So we’re going to set an appointment with an oncologist and a surgeon, and they’ll go over all of your testing with you.”

I set that appointment, and it was a three-hour-long appointment. They went over my diagnosis and the treatment plan that they had for me, which was a double mastectomy if I carried a gene for breast cancer.

My treatment options were limited, so I pursued integrative care

They were skeptical of chemo because lobular carcinoma doesn’t really respond to chemo. So it would have just been hormone therapy, surgery, and radiation. And that would have been the best plan for me.

But I felt very nervous about it at the time. I was 31 years old. My kids were still really young, and we had actually just moved here from Michigan about a year and a half before all of this happened. We were just getting settled into our new life in Arizona, adjusting to everything.

I wanted to do some research to see if there was any approach that I would be more comfortable with. But then, it was as effective to look for other options and get a second opinion from other clinics. So that’s what I did. And I found the clinic that I’m going to. It’s integrative.

I declined all the treatments that I was given because I was just very scared of the side effects from the hormone blockers, including risking osteoporosis and damaging my bones. Because I know that those are potential side effects. I was also scared of the chemo and the radiation. You know, when you do research, you read a lot, and you hear a lot of bad things. It made me really nervous to do those things.

But I also had a very rare situation happen. My BRCA2 gene mutated seven times inside my body, and those genes were resistant to one of the medications I was on. I was on a PARP inhibitor. It’s for BRCA2 and HER2-negative subtypes. So I was on that medicine for about four months before my BRCA2 gene mutated. And basically, the drug was useless at that point.

I got a scan 9 months later. The cancer had spread

The scan showed progression into my bones, which put me at stage 4. I feel like this had happened because I was just super stubborn. I was determined to heal my body without hormone therapy and chemo, radiation. I do regret not starting the hormone therapy much sooner. Had I done that, I probably wouldn’t have gotten to stage 4. Essentially, once I hit stage 4, I decided that I needed to go on the hormone blockers. And as soon as I got on the hormone blockers, a month later, my breast tumors were gone. And I just had the bone metastasis and the lymph nodes to worry about. Had I done hormone blockers sooner, it probably wouldn’t have spread to the bones. I do regret that.

So after that, I started a low-dose oral chemotherapy. And we are hoping it will do something with the bones. It’s a low dose, so hopefully it doesn’t damage my good cells, and it will be enough to wipe out the cancer cells. But it’s just an experiment, because we know that lobular carcinoma doesn’t really respond to chemo. We decided to give it a chance. And I have been on that since March this year.

So I have been on this treatment regimen for a while now, and I feel overall great. It’s just been a challenge trying to figure out what is going to get to my bones now.

How I’m handling the side effects of chemo

I feel like the most I’ve experienced is fatigue. And I try to counter this by taking vitamins. Lots of vitamins that my body needs. I drink extra water, electrolytes, and minerals. I also exercise every day just to keep my body and bones strong.

I think the most side effects I get are from the hormone blockers. Just being in early menopause, dealing with the hot flashes, and, it’s embarrassing to say, but your sweat smells way different when your hormones are blocked, and it’s not pleasant. So I shower multiple times a day and change my clothes often. I had to buy a neck fan just to help keep myself cool. And my bones ache extra from the hormone blockers.

The hardest challenge I’m facing

That’s getting through the day with the aches and the pains in my bones and fighting migraines that I get due to some lesions in my skull. Being a mom becomes a little bit more challenging when you’re experiencing pain. It’s hard to be super patient all the time and have energy to keep up with my kids all the time. But I do the best I can. I go with the flow every day.

Some days are better than others. I’m managing with the help of my mom and my stepdad. They sold their house and moved here from Michigan seven months ago. My stepdad got a job, and my mom doesn’t work. She takes care of my kids all day while my husband works. He’s just started truck driving, so he’s gone a lot. Unfortunately, it was very hard for him to work when I was gone for treatment, and it really did put a huge financial strain on our family for a while. We lost two vehicles, and we were just trying to figure out how we’re going to juggle everything. With him earning just one income, it was just about enough until you add medical expenses and me not being able to work. So, extra expenses on top of not having an income were very hard.

My mom teaches the kids while I’m not able to school them right now. She was a preschool teacher for a long time. So it’s right up her alley. She’s been my rock through it all. She cleans and she helps prep meals, and watches the kids, too. And now my husband’s able to work because she’s able to be with the kids every day.

It’s been a big blessing to our family to have my mom around. I wouldn’t be able to do this without her here.

My diagnosis saved my marriage

I feel like there was a lot of stress moving to a new state. Being a mom with little kids and my husband working added extra stress. I didn’t have any family out here, so I feel like with all the emotions we were going through, I think we hit a hard point in our relationship, trying to figure out how we can have time for ourselves and spend more time together.

I feel like when I got diagnosed, my husband and I had a realization that you can’t plan anything. Life can come to an end anytime for anybody, with or without disease. It’s precious to just value your family and make memories with them. I’ve learned that everything that I do with my family makes memories for them. And I cherish everything that I do with them so much more now than I ever have.

The way that I look at life is completely different, and my husband feels the same way. I feel more appreciated. It was a big eye-opener for both of us. It really did save our relationship.

What people don’t understand about stage 4 breast cancer

It’s not just, “Okay, you do this, do that, and you’re good. It’s done.” It doesn’t happen like that.

Everybody’s bodies react differently. There’s so much to learn scientifically about what goes on in our bodies. Sometimes our bodies don’t cooperate with meds, and then we run out of options. I mean, there’s only so many lines of treatment that we can utilize before we don’t have anything left.

I realized that it’s very difficult physically and emotionally. Just the fear of the unknown, not knowing what’s going on inside you all the time, and fearing all the what-ifs. What if it’s spreading? What if I don’t respond well to the treatment? And what if I’m not going to be around much longer?

I’ve had those thoughts myself before I got more confident and comfortable with my medical team. I wrote letters to my children because I didn’t know how long I was going to be around. I did build-a-bears with my voice recorded in them because I wanted them to have my voice, and I made them blankets because I just felt like I wanted them to be able to have something special that I made them.

I have faced so many emotional obstacles. My kids are everything to me, and I dedicate all my time to raising them, providing for them. I cherish that more than anything. I love being a mom, and my kids mean everything to me. So the thought of just me disappearing out of their lives really ripped me apart.

I think that a lot of people really don’t know much about cancer. It’s hard for them to sympathize with patients because they just don’t know what it’s really like unless they’ve been around people with it or they’re going through it themselves. I just think that the way many people think of cancer is that you just can do chemo and surgery, and you should be okay. Those things are so hard on your body, too.

It’s hard to get through the days when you feel so tired and you’re in pain. Sometimes, you feel like you’re a burden on the people around you.

My advice to others

Get multiple opinions and do whatever you feel in your gut or in your heart that you’re going to have the most peace with and feel the most comfortable. Wherever you feel comfortable is probably where you should be.

I feel like if I were in a place where I didn’t feel comforted or I didn’t have people who were there supporting me, it would not be a place I would want to be in. That’s very important for recovery and healing: the comfort that people bring you, the peace of mind that your medical team brings you if they’re there to support you, determined to help you recover.

Thank you for sharing your story, Marissa!

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How Hormone Replacement Therapy Helped Honey Feel Like Herself Again After Breast Cancer

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date May 22, 2025
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How Hormone Replacement Therapy Helped Honey Feel Like Herself Again After Breast Cancer

When Honey, a talented artist from Tallahassee, Florida, discovered a lump in her breast, it wasn’t during a routine checkup — she hadn’t had a mammogram in 15 years. In fact, she wasn’t one to visit doctors at all. But something told her to pay attention, and she did. That gut instinct led to a breast cancer diagnosis on her birthday in 2020, which was a shock but also a moment of clarity. As a mom, wife, and creative professional, Honey immediately thought that she didn’t have time for this and took quick, decisive action.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Honey opted for a bilateral mastectomy, skipping chemo and radiation because she felt strongly that they weren’t right for her. Her reconstruction process was full of surprises, from unexpectedly larger implants to feeling sidelined in decisions about her own body. Still, she handled the process with humor, especially during a hilarious family moment when her 98-year-old grandmother loudly asked about her new breast size. But it wasn’t all laughs. Honey felt unheard during the surgical process and wishes more women knew they could (and should) speak up more.

What Honey didn’t see coming was the long-term impact of surgical menopause after her oophorectomy. Doctors told her it was “no big deal” and necessary to reduce the chance of breast cancer returning. But what followed were debilitating symptoms: nerve pain, insomnia, arm tingling, weakness, and a misdiagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Eventually, Honey connected the dots — her body was starved of hormones. She dove into research, discovering thought leaders and the benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for breast cancer survivors.

Although it took time and persistence, Honey found a local doctor willing to prescribe HRT. That decision changed everything. Her pain subsided, her energy returned, and she felt like herself again — creative, vibrant, and empowered. Now, Honey urges others to question recommendations, understand available treatment options, and advocate fiercely. She believes that doctors often stay in their lane, and it’s up to patients to see the whole picture.

Honey’s story isn’t just about surviving breast cancer; it’s about reclaiming her health, her identity, and her joy. She encourages others not to be silenced, not to feel guilt, and to forgive themselves for what they didn’t know at the time. With hope, gratitude, and light, she continues to paint and share her truth.

Watch Honey’s video to find out more about her story:

Discover how her intuition led to a life-changing diagnosis on her birthday.
Why Honey said “no” to chemo and radiation, and what she did instead.
The surprising truth she uncovered about oophorectomies and hormone loss.
What no one tells you about breast reconstruction and how Honey handled it.
How hormone replacement therapy gave Honey her energy, art, and identity back.

Name: Honey H.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 48
Diagnosis:
- Breast Cancer
- HER2-, PR+, ER+
Staging:
- Stage 2
Symptom:
- Lump in the right breast
Treatments:
- Surgeries: Bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction, lymph node removal, oophorectomy
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Honey!

Inspired by Honey's story?

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A Second Chance at Life: Maggie’s Stage 4 PD-L1+ Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Story

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date February 26, 2025
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June 10, 2025

A Second Chance at Life: Maggie’s Stage 4 PD-L1+ Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Story

When Maggie moved to the United States from the Netherlands to be with her wife, cancer was the last thing on her mind. But in 2022, she was diagnosed with stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). What followed was an unexpected, life-changing experience that reshaped how she saw both the disease and her own resilience.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Maggie’s story started as a bruising sensation in her left breast, which was something she initially attributed to exercise or a tight sports bra. Because she had no family history of breast cancer, she wrongly believed she was not at risk. When the lump grew, her concerns deepened, but as a visitor in the U.S., the cost of medical care made seeking immediate answers difficult. When she finally returned to the Netherlands, her doctor suspected a benign cyst, but ordered further testing just in case.

The truth came in stages. A mammogram, an X-ray of her lungs, and a biopsy revealed that while two tumors were benign, one was malignant. The cancer had spread to Maggie’s lymph nodes and lungs. The final diagnosis—stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer—was delivered bluntly, with an expectation that she might not live past two years. But she refused to accept that prognosis as final.

Returning to the U.S., Maggie navigated the complex healthcare system and secured treatment. A clinical trial offered an opportunity she hadn’t considered before. She had never heard of clinical trials in her home country, but in America, they became a lifeline. She was placed on a regimen including an antibody-drug conjugate with immunotherapy. Over time, the cancer receded, and today, she has no evidence of disease.

Throughout her treatment, Maggie learned the power of self-advocacy. Understanding the details of her clinical trial, asking questions, and staying informed about treatment options became crucial. She emphasizes that clinical trials can be a safe space for those with aggressive cancers like stage 4 triple-negative breast cancer because of the constant monitoring and access to cutting-edge treatments.

Beyond medicine, Maggie leaned into her mental resilience. She speaks passionately about shifting perspective—rethinking “Why me?” to “Why not me?” She believes in the importance of self-affirmation, reminding herself daily that she is strong, worthy, and still here. Cancer did not strip her of her identity or her future; instead, she found purpose in advocating for others and embracing life fully.

Maggie encourages others to prioritize physical and mental well-being. Walking, exercising, and staying active helped her through the exhaustion of treatment. She believes in supporting fellow patients by sharing knowledge and breaking down fears surrounding clinical trials and treatments. Maggie’s story is not just about survival—it’s about transformation. Cancer changed her life, but it did not define it. She continues to embrace every moment, proving that no one should be counted out too soon.

Name: Maggie C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 44
Diagnosis:
- Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
- PD-L1+
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Bruising sensation in the breast
- Soft lump
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Clinical trial: antibody-drug conjugate and immunotherapy

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Maggie!

Inspired by Maggie's story?

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Kate’s Stage 4 Hormone Positive Breast Cancer Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date January 2, 2025
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January 2, 2025

Kate’s Stage 4 Hormone Positive Breast Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Kate, a 35-year-old mother of two from Brantford, Canada, was diagnosed with stage 4 hormone-positive breast cancer in late 2024.

Kate’s journey began in 2022, when she discovered a lump while breastfeeding her daughter. At the time, doctors dismissed it as a cyst, stating she was too young for a mammogram or biopsy. Over the years, doctors repeatedly disregarded her concerns, despite the lump growing significantly.

Balancing her roles as a mother, wife, and student pursuing a master’s in applied disabilities, Kate experienced severe anxiety, insomnia, and high blood pressure. She and her doctors had chalked these symptoms up to her hectic life, but later realized that they were signs of her advancing cancer. After she finally underwent a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy in July 2024, her hormone positive breast cancer was diagnosed as stage 3. However, additional scans confirmed that it was instead stage 4, after it had been found to have spread to her hip bone and some lung lymph nodes.

Kate quickly began an aggressive treatment plan, consisting of chemotherapy, a planned double mastectomy, and radiation. Despite the option to transition to palliative care, she chose to continue fighting for her family, especially her young children. Kate faces the physical and emotional toll of treatment, including exhaustion, chemo fog, and hair loss. Losing her hair was particularly difficult, but she found solace in the support of her husband and children, who embrace her unconditionally.

Her children, a 6-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter, keep her motivated, though she struggles with guilt over their missed activities due to her treatment. Kate stays active in their lives, ensuring normalcy while relying on her strong support system, including family and friends who celebrated her birthday with a surprise party before her chemotherapy began.

Though she mourns the loss of aspects of her femininity, including the prospect of a hysterectomy due to her hormone positive breast cancer subtype, Kate prioritizes survival for her family. She and her husband chose not to freeze her eggs, feeling content with their 2 children.

Kate remains grateful for her oncologist, who has been thorough in diagnostics and treatment planning. She has not sought a second opinion, trusting his expertise. While the road ahead is uncertain and involves continued treatments, Kate draws strength from her determination to see her children grow and her close-knit circle of loved ones. Despite the challenges, her resolve to fight for more time with her family, to live her life to the fullest, and to help others advocate for themselves defines her journey.

Name:
- Kate C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 34
Diagnosis:
- Breast cancer (hormone receptor positive)
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Rapidly growing tumor in right breast
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Kate!

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This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Anna!

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Thank you to Abbvie, Genmab, and Karyopharm for their support of our patient education program! The Patient Story retains full editorial control over all content.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for treatment decisions.

I’m enjoying life.
You know, God has given me another chance and the opportunities afforded me not only enable me to use my voice, but also to enjoy life.
And that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Introduction

My name is Francina. I’m a breast cancer survivor. I am a mother of two, a daughter and a son and a Nana of 4. 2 boys and 2 girls. I am one who loves to travel. I love going on cruises. And I also love spending time with my family and friends.

I’m also an advocate with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, and also I’m with Sister to Sister Alliance, a support group. We go out into the communities and events like health fairs to empower, to equip, and to enlighten men and women about cancer.

I’m enjoying life. You know, God has given me another chance and the opportunities afforded me enable me not only to use my voice, but also to enjoy life. And that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Pre-diagnosis

Initial Symptoms

Well, I didn’t experience any symptoms. It was my annual routine mammogram, and maybe about a few days, maybe a week later, I got a phone call from my doctor.

They needed to do another mammogram and also ultrasound because they had seen a mass.

They wasn’t really sure what it was, but they were concerned.

Diagnosis

So I went and I got my mammogram done. I got my ultrasound done, and I was on my way to the gym.

As soon as I get to the gym, I get a phone call from my doctor that the mass was cancerous.

And she said, I’m going to set you up with other doctors, you pick what you want and go from there.

… you don’t hear everything that’s being said because you’re still trying to figure out them 3 words. “I have cancer.”

Reaction to the Diagnosis

And so I’m sitting in my car and so I call my pastor and I call her aunt.

And after that I said, you know what, God? Because I never questioned Him. I never asked Him why. I said, If I’m going to carry this, it’s going to be to Your glory.

I said, I’m not going to call my children yet because I know they’re going to have many questions. So let me go, wait and see and talk to my doctor, you know, get information so that I can share with them.

My concern was having to go home and tell my husband. So I went into the gym and I worked out. I went home and my husband was in the bedroom, and I went and told him, and immediately it was negativity. You know, you go there thinking the worst. And so I had to throw my hand up and said, I don’t receive that. And I walked out the room. And so it was a process.

I had a friend that I went to talk to. I used to take care of her son for 2 and a half years, and he had passed away. So I went to her, you know, and let her know what was going on. And she’s a godsend.

I thought that her son was my reason. No, it was her because she went with me through my whole cancer journey from day 1: treatments, surgery, changing my bandages. I mean, the whole bit. And even took notes that I didn’t even know she had taken.

Because, you know, when you go to see your doctor and they tell you that you have cancer, you know, your mind is all over the place. And you don’t hear everything that’s being said because you’re still trying to figure out them 3 words: I have cancer.

Treatment

Options

So my surgeon was very compassionate. He explained everything to me until I understood. He gave me options.

Then he said, you go home and you pray about it, and you come back and let me know what your decision is.

Lumpectomy and biopsy

So I elected to have a lumpectomy done.

And in the process of having the lumpectomy done they found in my sentinel nodes that I had 3 cancerous cells. That means it was outside of the mass.

And so 2 weeks later, I had to have another surgery where they had to go into my armpit. And you have 3 tiers where they took out 2 tiers of cancers.

And it was clear. Clear margin. So the cancer had not spread. So that was a blessing.

So then I had to have a biopsy done so they would know what type of cancer I had.

Chemotherapy and radiation

So in the process of finding out what type of cancer I had, I was able to get a treatment that was tailor-made for my specific cancer. So I had the first round.

I had 4 rounds of chemo every 2 weeks, and then I had to have 12 rounds of another chemo.

The first chemo was doxorubicin, what we call Red Devil. That’s really a powerful, potent treatment.

And then I had paclitaxel, which was for 3 months.

After that, I had either 32 or 33 rounds of radiation.

And from there I was cancer-free. That was 6 and a half years ago.

Being Cancer-Free

And it was due to biomarker testing that at the time I did not know I had it done. I just found out the early part of this year. And it was that that contributed to the type of treatment that I needed for my specific cancer, which worked.

And like I said, to God be all the glory because I am cancer-free. I am healed.

And the moment when the doctor pulled me in and said, hey, your scans are clear. Oh, I mean, I was ecstatic, but I already knew because I had a conversation with God, you know, and he gave me 3 words as well. And his 3 words was: I got you. And when God said he got you, he got you.

So I never was stressed or worried about my cancer journey at all.

“I had people”

You know, everybody says something different, but it was just the stress mentally, you know, physically and emotionally of going through and the challenges that I had because of it.

I had to stop working, I was no longer able to work. And so in the process, I exhausted my savings. And so I had no health, no health care.

And so I applied for assistance, but I didn’t qualify, and I had no income.

But I had people.

My social worker was awesome. And she connected me to organizations as well as my niece, because I had a sister that passed away from breast cancer in 2015. So she wasn’t as fortunate.

So I used my voice on behalf of her as well as those that are next to me, but also coming behind me.

Advice Francina Wants to Share

Get tested

So based on my experience, I now advocate testing.

You know, we have to advocate. We have to stop being silent, being quiet, and to let people know cancer does not have to be a death sentence.

Early detection is key. And so, you know, you want to make a point of people to go ahead and get their screenings done. And those that are not old enough to have mammograms to do self-breast exams monthly.

So I’m about educating and giving information, you know, sharing my story, my journey so that I can help others along the way.

And my advocacy has also extended to me urging my daughter to get tested too. And she does get tested, every 6 months. And I also have a sister on my father’s side who also gets tested.

My niece also gets tested because it was her mother that passed away, and I’m her aunt. So, you know, you got to look at that connection. So they all are proactive in getting their screenings. They get MRIs and do self-breast exams as well. I have 2 granddaughters I’m trying to teach about doing self-breast checks.

When we go to health fairs, there are a lot of young adults that are not old enough to get mammograms, don’t know how to do self-breast exams, don’t even know about it. So I’ve asked them, you know, when you go get your physicals, do you talk to your physician? They say, no.

I said, when you go, you ask them to not only perform it, but to show you how to do it yourself, because a lot of times people find those lumps themselves. Also, they’ll be the first to see a change in their body.

So they need to know what to look for. So we like to educate and give information so they are aware.

Link with support groups

Connecting with support groups helped, surrounding myself with positive people. And also learning from them about people who beat cancer. Not just seeing the success, but gathering information from them.

But it was also inspiring to see patients who are now 5 years, 10 years, 20 years cancer free. You know, that was the stuff that gave me something to push forward to.

That can help you through your journey, because there are a lot of people that have already been through what we’re going through so they can help us.

You know, they can be an encouragement and inspiration to us and also be there to support us.

Cancer doesn’t have me.
I’m going to be in control.
It’s not going to take me.

Develop a positive mindset

And also having a positive mindset was so important.

Cancer doesn’t have me. I’m going to be in control. It’s not going to take me.

I’m going to enjoy my life, you know, and do some of the things that maybe I wouldn’t have normally do.

But, you know, just to be an inspiration and encouragement to other people that listen, you can fight this, you can beat this, you can overcome this. You can still have quality of life.

Put your mind to do the things that you want to do, and surround yourself with positive people. Get connected to support groups.

Lean on family and friends

It was so amazing to be supported by my church family, their prayers, having them rally around you and cheer you on.

Plus the support from my family was so heartening. Because when I did finally tell my children, my daughter looked at me. Mom, she said, you know, you’re a strong woman, you’re going to beat this.

My son wanted to run and come to his mama. You know, but they all know that their mama is a fighter.

I’m not one to give up. I’m not one to quit. So I’m going to push. I’m going to press.

But my daughter, every time I look around, she was leaving Maryland, coming to see about her mama. If I didn’t sound right on the phone, she was there.

So, like I said, my family means a lot, because they see me doing my journey. But it also helps them too, as we’re creating memories and also leaving legacies that they can follow and continue with.

Be aware of any family history

Another key thing that I tell people is, know your family history.

See, when I was growing up you didn’t ask questions as a child. So now all your matriarchs and the patriarchs are no longer here.

You know, you don’t have the information. So it has to start from me with educating my children and my grandkids.

And I’m seeing me when I’m going through and understanding what I do and why I do it.

So with their support and the support of my friends, you know, I’m I believe I’m making a difference.

Learn about biomarkers and why they matter

I also wanted to talk a little bit about biomarkers and their importance. Basically, they get a sample from your tumor and they test it, you know, and then and it determines the type of cancer that you have.

Well, I’m still learning about biomarker testing, but what it did for me was it was able to target the type of cancer that I had. So a lot of people are not aware that they’ve had it done because, you know, you didn’t hear of it. Even my doctors, they didn’t tell me anything about biomarker testing.

It was my advocacy group that was discussing it because it’s something that we’re trying to get out there trying to talk with our lawmakers. Making that a policy. We’re not there yet. So we’re trying to get petitions and we’re educating, you know, our lawmakers. With personal stories.

That’s something that we could bring to the table when it comes to insurance companies, because right now, a lot of insurance companies will not pay for it because they feel that it’s experimental. But when you got these positive outcomes from people who have had it done to me, you know that makes it makes a difference.

So now they can go back and see, okay, what treatment would be best to combat this type of cancer. And so for me, that’s what they did.

So the regimen that I was on, even though it was hard, it was something that did what it needed to do. And that’s why I am cancer-free because it was targeted for my specific cancer.

It’s cost effective because, if you really don’t know what you what you’re dealing with, you don’t really know what type of treatment is best for that. You’re trying different regimens and it puts a lot of stress and strain on the patient.

But if you’re a doctor and you know something is targeted that this is going to work for this type of cancer, if you use this type of treatment, this medication, then, okay, you’re saving your patient, but you’re also giving that that person quality of life and also extending their life.

I want everybody to be advocates for themselves.
Because who knows your body better than you do?

Advocate for others—and yourself

Let me finish by sharing the most important efforts in the work I’m doing with the American Cancer Society when it comes to the black and African American community.

Bringing about awareness, equipping them, empowering them to get out there and to do what they need to do for themselves. Leading by example. Sharing my story with them and letting them know.

Again, cancer is not a death sentence. Early detection is key. We must get out there and do our screenings, and also do our monthly breast exams, and not allow fear to keep you from getting the care.

Because everybody deserves to have some type of quality care.

I want everybody to be advocates for themselves. Because who knows your body better than you do?

And sometimes you go to doctors and you tell them things are going on and they push you off. And my thing is, if you go to a doctor and they cannot do what you’re asking or requiring them to do, go somewhere else where somebody will.

Because there are people that have been diagnosed and they’re already stage 3. Stage 4. Whereas if they would have had it done initially, they may have caught it earlier.

So we have to also be advocates for ourselves. We deserve to have care. We deserve to be listened to and to be understood.

Special thanks again to Abbvie, Genmab, and Karyopharm for their support of our patient education program! The Patient Story retains full editorial control over all content.

Thank you for sharing your story, Francina!

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Name: Krista B.
Diagnosis:
- Breast Cancer
- Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)
- HR+, HER2-
Staging:
- Stage 1A
Mutations:
- ATM
Symptoms:
- None; abnormality detected in breast MRI
Treatments:
- Surgery: double mastectomy with DIEP flap reconstruction
- Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM): tamoxifen

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Expand to read the AI-generated YouTube Video Transcript

[00:01] Hi, I’m Krista, and I am a nurse and a patient advocate and a breast cancer survivor. My story really begins with my mom’s cancer diagnosis. She was diagnosed at age 48 with stage 3 breast cancer. At that time, she was only tested for two gene mutations linked to breast cancer, which were the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. She was negative.

[00:36] Fast forward, she did every type of treatment—chemo, radiation, hormone therapy, everything. She put up a strong fight for about 12 years. Shortly before she passed away, she was unfortunately offered expanded genetic testing for other genes linked to breast cancer. She did test positive for a mutation in her ATM gene, which was a pathogenic mutation and higher risk than the average ATM gene.

[01:15] She shared that with all of her children because we then had a 50% chance of inheriting that from her, so we had the option to also test for that mutation. A few months after she passed away, I decided to move forward with my own genetic testing and found out I was also a carrier of the same mutation. So, I had a 69% risk of breast cancer, a 5 to 10% risk of pancreatic cancer, and also a 2 to 3% risk of ovarian cancer.

[01:56] Because I was at high risk for these cancers, I started to follow the recommendations for more thorough and frequent screenings, which meant on top of mammograms, I was also doing breast MRI, alternating every six months. I started that process and also began considering different surgical options for preventative surgeries.

[02:20] During this time, my mammogram was normal, but my breast MRI showed an abnormality. We did some follow-up testing—ultrasound and diagnostic mammogram. At that time, they said that it did not look like cancer. I was nervous about that with my risk, so I followed up and had three specialists tell me that it was not cancer. They advised me to take my time, make my decisions, and move forward with the surgical plan that I had in place.

[03:01] So, I did that, but because it started to have a possibility of affecting the process of my surgery, I requested a biopsy. It came back two weeks before my preventative surgery and showed a diagnosis of breast cancer. It was a little bit of a shock. I went into my biopsy thinking, “Oh, I’m good. This is just a routine check to make sure it’s okay to move forward with my surgery in the order we had planned.” So, I was really surprised at the diagnosis, but I was grateful to have that plan in place already and that I wasn’t scrambling to make decisions.

[03:42] I had my first surgery, a double mastectomy with flap reconstruction, on January 30th of this year, followed by a second surgery in April. Luckily, I really believe that I owe this all to my mom and advances in genetics. I’m grateful every day for the fact that she did genetic testing because, to this day, at this point in time, I don’t think I would still have a diagnosis based on my screening schedule. I’m very grateful I was able to avoid chemotherapy and a lot of the other things that I watched her go through. I’m grateful for that every day. It saved my life.

[04:36] If you’re interested in doing genetic testing, the first step would be to talk to your medical provider. This can sometimes be your primary care provider, an OB-GYN, or any specialist in the field of cancer that you may or may not have a family history with. You’re going to want to request a hereditary cancer panel, which screens for somewhere around 79 different genes that are now linked to cancer. The first step would be to request that from your provider, and most of the time, they’ll recommend that you see a genetic counselor, which is a great idea in my opinion. They’re amazing and have the most up-to-date information on the different genes and the risks associated with each. They do a deep dive into your family history and then make recommendations for different testing.

[05:31] From that point, it has really changed my life. I have three little girls, and I just think how different it’s going to be for them and how much they can avoid. But when it comes down to choices for reconstruction, there are typically three main choices that are offered to patients or should be offered to patients. One of them is esthetic flat closure, the second one is breast implants, and the third is flat base reconstruction. Flat base reconstruction is one that’s a little less known. It was my choice, and rather than having an implant, they take tissue from a part of your body and basically transplant it with all the vessels and use that in place of the implant for your reconstruction.

[06:26] It’s pretty amazing the way that they do it, and there are different places that they can take the tissue from. One of the most common is the one that I chose called deep flap reconstruction. They take tissue from your abdomen and use that for the reconstruction. It’s a little bit of a longer surgery upfront, and it was a two-phase surgery for me. That’s very common for patients who choose this reconstruction option. It is around an eight-hour surgery usually, so a little longer.

[07:06] My advice to anyone who is facing these choices is that they’re very hard choices, right? They’re life-changing decisions that you have to make. Sometimes you aren’t given a lot of time, but the thing that I hope everyone understands is that there are different options out there. Regardless of what anyone else thinks—whether it’s your provider, your family members, or someone who has been through it—ultimately, it’s your decision, and it’s what you have to live with. It should be the choice that makes you feel the most at peace moving forward.

[07:50] I have a lot of patients who I talk to who get very frustrated because they were not offered all the options. That’s one of the reasons I like to share my story because even for me as a nurse, in the beginning, I did not have a clue that this was an option. My biggest advice would be to take your time. Even with a cancer diagnosis, you have time to make an informed decision. Consider all of your options and choose the one that makes you feel the most at peace moving forward.

[08:25] The recommendation for me, treatment-wise moving forward, was that I had a very low risk of recurrence. My Oncotype score was one out of 100, so no chemo was recommended. But I was hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative. The recommendation for me was tamoxifen, and that would be over a five-year period. I am at this point only three months in, but very happy to say that my side effects have been very minimal so far. I know that can change, but so far, not bad—just a little bit of sleep disturbance and fatigue, but nothing that is not manageable.

[09:10] One of the things that my oncologist, who I love, recommended was making sure you exercise every day. That was going to make the biggest difference in my side effects on that medication, so he said, “Don’t stop.” So I increased it, and I’m going to keep doing that and hope for the best moving forward. I know that side effects can be really hard sometimes, and it’s always a hard choice. It was something that I never wanted to do, which is why I chose the preventative surgery. But here we are. Just try to make the best of it and take it day by day.

[09:52] I think I tend to carry stress well somehow, but after everything was finished, I felt this huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I remember saying to my husband, “I didn’t even realize how much I was carrying until I was done with the surgery part.” It’s a huge stressor, but I did try to do a few things during the last year as I was going through all of this that helped a lot.

[10:31] For me, I’m not necessarily a meditation person, but that is very helpful for a lot of people. For me, I have a swing on my back porch, and that’s kind of my space where I spend a lot of time. I guess it could be similar to meditation, but that was very helpful to me. I would just go out and have quiet—turn off the phone, have time to just kind of process things, and swing on my swing. Grounding is also really good.

[11:10] Having somebody to talk to is important. I’m very lucky. My husband is very supportive, and he listened to me. I’m an out-loud processor, so he listened as I made all these hard decisions and changed my mind 500 times. Just the back-and-forth, talking about all the things I’m learning about food—you have to have a person who is willing to listen and not necessarily give advice. That was very helpful.

[11:42] I’m also back to the exercise, but running is a huge stress relief for me. That was one of the things I also tried to focus on—making sure I was getting in running and doing some deep breathing.

[11:55] One of the biggest things that feels overwhelming to a lot of people who have just been diagnosed with cancer or are at high risk is, “What do I eat?” That was one of the first things that I said to my doctor, “What should I eat? Is there a specific diet that I should be on?” I talk to women every day who are asking the same questions. It is one of the most impactful things that we can do, but also one of the most overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to navigate all of these things being thrown at you with a new diagnosis and high-risk genes.

[12:34] I am in a Master’s of Medical Nutrition program right now, which I love. I get to focus a lot on the research with cancer prevention and all of the new studies that are coming out. I love it. I’m very passionate about it, but I will also say that there is no perfect plan. There’s no perfect diet that we can all do to prevent cancer, right? There’s no 100% guarantee with anything when it comes to cancer. It does what it wants.

[13:10] Some of the best recommendations I can give are to eat a lot of plants. One of the best things you can do is eat lots of fruits and vegetables. I think the recommendation is 5 or 6 servings. I try to go for 8 to 10 every day, which sounds like a lot, but once you start incorporating them and finding different ways to do it, there are so many things—fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grains—that have so many benefits for cancer and trying to prevent cancer and reduce your risk as much as possible.

[13:47] The reason that I like to share this kind of information is because, for me personally, moving from this place of overwhelm and trying to navigate everything into a space where I felt more empowered was huge for me. I remember thinking, “I’m a nurse, and how much of this did I not know from the start, and how much have I had to learn?” I felt very fortunate to have access to a lot of courses and certifications that not everyone has.

[14:26] I feel like I owe my life to my mom and genetic testing, and I would be in a very different place without that. After I went through all of this, I felt this huge responsibility to share with others because I know there are so many people who could benefit from this information. Even if it makes a difference for one person or helps one person feel more empowered in their decision-making and informed about the options that are available, even genetic testing—if it helps one person or prevents one cancer diagnosis—it’s totally worth it.

[15:12] No matter what phase you’re going through, it’s scary, and it’s overwhelming. Whether you have been diagnosed with cancer already or are a provider who is just starting out on your journey, just know that it’s not always going to feel like it feels right now.

Thank you for sharing your story, Krista!

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Samantha’s Stage 4 ER+ PR+ HER2+ IDC Breast Cancer Story

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date July 25, 2024
No Comments on Samantha’s Stage 4 ER+ PR+ HER2+ IDC Breast Cancer Story

May 7, 2025

Samantha’s Stage 4 ER+ PR+ HER2+ IDC Breast Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Samantha’s journey with stage 4 breast cancer began in March 2019 when she was 22. Living in Virginia with her husband and young daughter, she first noticed a lump in her breast. Initially dismissed by her primary care physician and an ultrasound tech as an infection, a biopsy eventually confirmed her cancer diagnosis. Despite the initial belief that her cancer was at stage 1, further tests revealed it had spread, making it stage 4 breast cancer.

Her treatment plan involved chemotherapy, which she had to stop early due to severe neuropathy, followed by a lumpectomy, radiation, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Despite significant side effects, she managed to maintain no evidence of disease (NED) for some time. After two years of hormone therapy, Samantha decided to take a break to try for a baby, which led to a successful pregnancy in April 2022.

However, during her pregnancy, she and her family moved to Alaska. While there, Samantha’s cancer recurred, causing severe back pain due to lesions in her spine and pelvis. Unable to travel back to Virginia without stabilizing her spine, she underwent surgery and later radiation before returning to her oncologist for a new treatment plan. She joined a clinical trial involving a new radium drug for bone metastases but had to leave it due to mixed results.

Samantha then resumed hormone therapy and targeted therapy with different drugs than before. Throughout her treatment, she emphasized the importance of careful decision-making, the support of her family, and maintaining a positive outlook.

Name: Samantha L.
Diagnosis:
- Breast Cancer
- Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)
- ER+
- PR+
- HER2+
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptom:
- Lump in breast
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgeries: Surgery: lumpectomy, spinal surgery (fractured vertebrae)
- Radiation
- Hormone therapy: anastrozole & letrozole
- Targeted therapy: abemaciclib & ribociclib

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

I went to my regular doctor who said it was nothing. I was so young that it couldn’t be breast cancer.