Personal Update {April 2023}

At the end of 2022, I posted about being out on medical leave at the start of 2023. For the past six years, I have had mammograms or MRIs every six months, three stereotactic biopsies, and three surgical biopsies. Through these procedures, I was diagnosed with multiple pre-cancerous conditions, but it was after the discovery of lobular carcinoma in situ in September 2022 that I decided the watch-and-wait phase was over. I chose to move forward with a double mastectomy. Even though I knew it was the right choice, it wasn't easy.

This procedure was supposed to be prophylactic, but ten days after my procedure, my decision was further solidified when my pathology returned ductal carcinoma in situ. This is a stage 0 cancer, and I am so lucky to have caught it early. The treatment for this cancer would have been a lumpectomy with radiation or a double mastectomy.

While being public about personal issues is very out of character for me, it is just SO important. I am passionate about being proactive and being your own advocate. Get your mammograms, do self-exams, and, most of all, trust your gut!

While early detection is so important, it is not always possible or work out that way. There is much work to be done for survival rates for those dealing with more advanced stages. Specific organizations like Komen and METavivor are directing more research and change toward advanced disease treatments.

I am lucky enough now to be on the other side of things. I have worked very hard in PT and almost have my full range of motion back, and I am so excited to get back to doing what I love. I thank all of my clients for their patience and support over the past couple of months. I appreciate you all!