About Me
I am a two-time survivor of Inflammatory Breast Cancer.
At the age of 52, in May of 2017, I was diagnosed with Stage III B Inflammatory Breast Cancer (invasive lobular, ER+, PR+, HER2-). I underwent 16 rounds of chemo, a right-side, radical mastectomy and 33 rounds of radiation. I developed lymphedema in my right arm, in part due to the removal of 25 lymph nodes. In 2020, I had a lymph node transplant, lymphatic bypass and diep flap reconstruction.
Upon completing active treatment, I settled into a new routine that included daily use of an aromatase inhibitor (Letrozole) and quarterly injections of Lupron.
At age 55, in February, 2021, I received a second diagnosis of Stage III B Inflammatory Breast Cancer (invasive lobular, ER+, PR+, HER2-). I had 20 rounds of chemo, a left-side radical mastectomy and 42 rounds of radiation. I developed lymphedema in my left arm after 38 lymph nodes were removed at surgery. For 18 months, I took Tamoxifen and Abemaciclib (Verzenio) daily.
In July, 2023, the cancer progressed and I now live with Metastatic Breast Cancer (Stage 4). I am currently in active treatment and take Faslodex, Zometa and Afinitor.
At the age of 52, in May of 2017, I was diagnosed with Stage III B Inflammatory Breast Cancer (invasive lobular, ER+, PR+, HER2-). I underwent 16 rounds of chemo, a right-side, radical mastectomy and 33 rounds of radiation. I developed lymphedema in my right arm, in part due to the removal of 25 lymph nodes. In 2020, I had a lymph node transplant, lymphatic bypass and diep flap reconstruction.
Upon completing active treatment, I settled into a new routine that included daily use of an aromatase inhibitor (Letrozole) and quarterly injections of Lupron.
At age 55, in February, 2021, I received a second diagnosis of Stage III B Inflammatory Breast Cancer (invasive lobular, ER+, PR+, HER2-). I had 20 rounds of chemo, a left-side radical mastectomy and 42 rounds of radiation. I developed lymphedema in my left arm after 38 lymph nodes were removed at surgery.
Due to the complexities of IBC treatment, I have not had reconstruction on the left side. I currently take Tamoxifen and Abemaciclib (Verzenio) daily.
In July, 2023, the cancer progressed and I now live with Metastatic Breast Cancer (Stage 4). I am currently in active treatment and take Faslodex, Zometa, and Afinitor.
Moments of Clareity is the story of my journey through cancer. I have made every effort to remain authentic with my experience as it occurred and, where possible, have corroborated my memories with others who were present. I reviewed personal notes, medical reports and written communications with providers.
I dedicate Moments of Clareity to cancer patients and all my fellow human travelers. Life is beautiful and complicated and so are we.