When Were You Diagnosed?
In early August 2024, I noticed a small indention under my breast, right along the crease line. It seemed minor at first, but something about it didn’t feel right. Two weeks later, I scheduled both a mammogram and an ultrasound. The mammogram showed no visible signs of disease, but the ultrasound told a different story—it revealed a mass hidden in an area that mammograms often can’t capture.
A biopsy was scheduled for the first week of September, and on September 27, 2024, I met with my medical team to receive the official diagnosis and discuss treatment options. That moment began a journey that would test my faith, resilience, and determination.
How Long Have You Been Battling Breast Cancer?
On October 3rd, I’ll celebrate one year since what we affectionately called “Eviction Day”—the day we “evicted” the mass (and its unwanted “squatters,” the lymph nodes). Since then, I’ve been medically cancer-free.
While treatment continues—with hormone therapy, bone-strengthening infusions, and additional surgeries over the next few years—I am grateful that through quick and proactive care, I was able to avoid both chemotherapy and radiation.
My case was particularly rare. Less than 2% of breast cancers are found in the inframammary fold, the crease beneath the breast. Over 90% of these cases are diagnosed at stage 4, largely because the area is difficult to view on mammograms due to its position against the chest wall. Often, cancers in this location may have been growing undetected for years.
My story could have been one of those cases. If I hadn’t noticed that subtle indention, doctors estimate my cancer might have gone unnoticed for another two to three years. That’s why I urge everyone—when doing self-exams, don’t forget to visually check and feel beneath the breast crease. Your attention to detail could save your life.
Words of Encouragement for Others
To anyone fighting breast cancer—or any life challenge—I want to encourage you to be your own strongest advocate. Listen to your body, trust your instincts, and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.
Even on your hardest days, try to find something good, even if it’s just a small laugh or a moment of gratitude. Positivity goes a long way in the healing process. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to rest when you need to. There’s a time to be Superwoman in full strength, and there’s a time to be Superwoman recharging her power—both are equally brave.
