💗 The Diagnosis: A Journey of Strength and Resolve
When I received the results of my mammogram, I had a sinking feeling. The need for additional testing was a familiar and unwelcome sign. This time, I asked my husband to come with me, the memory of being sent straight to the surgery department for a biopsy alone during my previous scare was still fresh. But unlike last time, the biopsy couldn’t be done immediately. It had to be scheduled.
We had a long-awaited trip planned to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary, a dream vacation to Hawaii. Then, my doctor had a pre-scheduled trip as well. So the biopsy was set for October 6th. Just three days later, on October 9th, I received the call: it was cancer. The type and pathology were confirmed.
From that moment, everything shifted. The diagnosis launched a whirlwind of appointments, phone calls, and preparations. I was gearing up to fight for my life, again. Because of our insurance coverage, we’re receiving treatment in Weston, WI, nearly an hour’s drive each way.
On October 10th, I underwent an MRI to better understand the size and depth of the tumor. The mammogram and ultrasound had measured it at 1.5 cm, but the MRI revealed it was 2.2 cm and located deep against the chest wall — a detail that would shape the treatment plan.
On October 17th, we met with both the oncologist and the surgeon. That day brought clarity and direction. The oncologist outlined a treatment plan beginning with six chemotherapy sessions, paired with an immunotherapy drug. The surgeon discussed surgical options and scheduled a procedure to place a port — a small device implanted under the skin with a catheter threaded into the jugular vein. This port will be used for blood draws, chemotherapy infusions, and other necessary tests.