A Routine Mammogram Saved My Life

Meet Ria, Diagnosed With Breast Cancer At 41

Hi, I'm Ria.

On November 5, 2018, I went in for a routine mammogram. The next day, I got a call to come in for more pictures, an ultrasound, and a biopsy. They had found suspicious calcifications.

On November 26, 2018, I was given the news that the biopsy tested positive for cancer. I was diagnosed with malignant neoplasm of the upper-outer quadrant of right breast, estrogen receptor positive.

I had NO breast cancer symptoms, which was scary. I had no family history of it. Just a couple of months prior, I had my wellness exam and the test results all came back normal. But of course, I learned that cancer is not detected that way.

I went through 6 rounds of: Carboplatin, Docetaxel, Perjeta, & Herceptin.

On June 21st of this year, a week after my mastectomy, my oncologist gave me the best news! He said the pathology results showed “No evidence of disease!” This meant I had a complete response to chemo, and I did not need to have radiation treatment. I was told that I was cancer free and in remission, but that I did have to continue Herceptin treatments until the end of the year and start hormonal therapy.

On December 17th, I had my last Herceptin treatment. The following day, my port-a-cath was removed.

Cancer is life changing. The chemotherapy physically destroys your body, while cancer itself mentally drains you. With that said, I am glad I was still able to exercise. It was, and still is my therapy.

I am trying to get used to my new normal. My second chance at life. I have met some amazing people through this journey. Cancer has taught me what is important in life. To take it one day at a time, and to live life to the fullest. I hope to inspire others with my story. I believe that the routine mammogram is what saved my life.

Thank you for sharing your story, Ria. SBC loves you!

Ria was on our podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations! Check out this episode, featuring her incredible story.

Ria was also a part of a panel discussion on Thrivership After Breast Cancer. Listen to this episode now!

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