Nancy's Story

Nancy shares her story to raise awareness about the importance of early breast cancer detection and diagnosis.

My name is Nancy and I am 39 years old. I received my diagnosis of stage 3A breast cancer in February of 2020. I want to share my journey with you. It's been quite a ride!

The Women's Health Center at Swedish Hospital is amazing. Right from the beginning, I was asked why I came in. Well, in my case I should have been rescreened years ago but never had time to be checked. Yes, that's right, I always say I don't have time! It is not easy being a single parent, working full time, taking care of the house, school and so on.

Most of you might understand me. Some might say "how negligent." Yes, it's true in a way I was.
But what prompted me to be checked is that my aunt was diagnosed in November 2019. 

Thankfully my aunt is doing well and is on her road to recovery. In my case, I am waiting to have surgery. I want to tell you not to be afraid and if you are it is okay. This is not easy to take in. I told my Dr. Lambiase (she is wonderful) that I don't have time to be sick. I want to get better, give me solutions. I want to be able to make it through.

I met with my surgeon Dr. Maldonado (she is great) and I begged her to just take my breast away since that seems to be an easy fix. Wrong. We must understand that even though it seems to be an easy way out that is not the case for everyone.

We sat down and she explained to me that I would have a team, isn't that amazing! I like working on a team. I can tell you my team is the best. I was afraid of getting chemotherapy, and guess what? I finished. I can tell you it is tiring.

I just stopped working about a month ago. I don't regret any of it because on days that I come in for treatment I look forward to being a step closer to getting better.

Seeing the nurses at the infusion center is great. Cristina is always smiling, so caring and very attentive to your needs. She has a great personality and has open hands to helping you around the center. Tida is also great always so kind and smiling, not to mention Sue, she is also great. Ms. Katherine, so helpful to me. Listening to me at my breaking point. Such an amazing person.

They are not just your team, you grow to love them as you are there with them. They don't
just see you as a patient. These nurses are really dedicated to you. This is one of the main
reasons why I lost my fear. They made sure I could trust them. The communication with the doctors is also great. They make sure you are their number one priority.

When I was told I was having a team, I did not think of how great this team would be. And for that I am truly grateful. I count my blessings coming here to Swedish Hospital. This was the best decision I could have ever made. Please don't be scared. Get checked and find your team!

I want to thank Crissy, Tida, Sue, Chris and Katherine for taking care of me these past six months. You all are the best! The biggest compensation I could get was you helping me get through this.

To schedule a mammogram, request an appointment or call 773-878-6888. 

Published October 8, 2020