Interview

A Breast Cancer Survivor’s Journey

“I will do anything to help others afflicted by cancer. Encouragement, support. That’s why God made me go through this, so I can help other women.” – Dana Brown

Dana Brown’s story serves as an inspiration. It was April 2013 when she learned she had the most common form of breast cancer, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. At her yearly mammogram, a lump was detected in her left breast. She went underwent needle biopsy and discovered the tumor was malignant.

“Once you hear the ‘c word’ and it pertains to you, it is terrifying. But, you can either face it head on, or let it overtake you.” - Dana

Dana chose to fight. Because she had a hormone-driven tumor, she underwent breast-conserving therapy. Also known as a lumpectomy, this surgery removes part of the breast tissue, as opposed to the entire breast. Then, a genetic test, onco-dx, looked at 17 genes in the tumor to determine if chemotherapy was needed or not. The results of the test fell right in the middle. Therefore, another test, mamaprint, was used to assess the risk that the tumor will metastasize to other parts of the body. It was discovered she was at high risk for reoccurrence and would require chemotherapy.

She underwent four rounds of chemotherapy. The medicine used to heighten her immune system gave her such back pain it felt like labor.  She experienced high levels of fatigue, but minimal nausea and vomiting. Then, she underwent 30 rounds of radiation, one everyday for almost 6 weeks. Demonstrating what a strong woman she is, she said the radiation was “nothing compared to chemo.” She had burn symptoms, similar to sunburn, and her fingernails were damaged.

She described her treatment as “a journey, with ups and downs.” She said she got through it was help from family and a support group.

After the radiation, she felt a lump in the same breast. Thankfully, it was only scar tissue and no cancer was detected. She exercises through the Live Strong program to build her strength, bones, and muscle mass back up. Now, she is on an estrogen blocker for 5 years and her 6-month follow up is coming up.

And in the words of Dana, “Well that’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.”

During our interview, Dana gave impressive, thoughtful answers that showed her strength not only as a survivor, but also as a mother and woman. She was extremely knowledgeable, gracious, and loving. We laughed, got teary eyed, and even said "You go girl!" a few times out loud.

We thank Dana for her time and honesty. We dedicate this research project in honor of her and all other lives touched by this dreadful disease.

For cancer survivors and caregivers, Relay For Life is an opportunity to connect with others who are facing the same challenges. If you would like to donate to finish the fight, volunteer, or join a team, click on the following link: http://www.relayforlife.org/.

In addition, please take care to have regular self-breast exams and mammograms.