‍Kelly, a breast cancer survivor, shared her story with us:

On September 22, 2021, at 41, I was diagnosed with triple positive invasive mammary carcinoma. Breast Cancer.

When I first arrived to STEGH, I was newly diagnosed, scared, and uncertain of where this journey was going. The oncology team became my tour guides for a trip I never wanted to take. It started with a lumpectomy on October 12, 2021.

For the next two years, I attended over 75 appointments between four hospitals. This included 8 rounds of chemotherapy, 10 rounds of radiation, 18 rounds of immunotherapy, echocardiograms, blood work, scans, port-a-cath placement and removal, monthly check ups, and this list goes on.

Along the way, I was in the ER many times, was admittedto STEGH four times, and spent 5 days in the ICU for blood clots in my heartand a pulmonary embolism. With each visit, the speed, compassion, andexceptional care from all the staff during my darkest days made it possible tokeep going. This could not be more true for my Oncology team.

Thank you to the doctors and nurses at STEGH, especiallythe oncology team, for their support over the last two years. I wouldn’t be herewithout you.

I have continued monthly visits for post cancerpreventative care, where I look forward to connecting with the oncology team.Both during my treatment and in follow ups, I find comfort in the moments theymade me laugh, cared for more than just my physical health, and reminded me ofmy strength.

Today I am happy to share that I show no evidence of thedisease. My journey through cancer was difficult and challenging, but the stopsalong the way showed me who I really am; a woman with the strength anddetermination to fight cancer.

I am also thankful for my tribe. My husband, family, andfriends who reminded me of what I'm capable of and provided me withunconditional love and support.  I will be forever grateful.  

It may have been a different path than I expected, but I’ve been given a chance to get what I really want out of this life. My supports have shown me how strong I am and that they will be my rock through the changes in life, and just how loved I am.

Life is good.

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