My Breast Cancer Journey: From Diagnosis to Survivorship
- Surviving Breast Cancer
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 6
By Marie C. Zoutomou-Quintanilla
Before cancer entered my life, I was a vibrant 31-year-old juggling a demanding career and an active social life. I was deeply involved in my community and took pride in living healthfully. Like many young women, I rarely gave serious thought to my health—until everything changed.
It began with a lump I discovered during a routine self-exam. I was concerned, but two doctors dismissed it, assuring me I was too young for breast cancer and advising against further testing. Still, something in my gut told me not to ignore it. As the lump grew, I knew I had to push harder for answers. When I finally received the appropriate tests, the diagnosis was life-shattering: stage 3 breast cancer.
Looking back, I wish I had trusted my instincts sooner. The delay in diagnosis meant the cancer had already advanced. It’s a hard lesson, but one that fuels my mission today—to help others advocate for their health without hesitation.
The day I heard the words “you have cancer” was the most difficult day of my life. I felt frozen, unable to process the news. When I called my father, his words cut through the fog: “Pull yourself together.” I did. After shedding a few tears, I chose to face the battle head-on. I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) that had spread to my lymph nodes. It was estrogen receptor-positive, which meant hormonal therapy was part of my treatment plan.
Treatment: Chemotherapy, Surgery, and Radiation
Treatment began almost immediately. I started chemotherapy on November 18, 2010—a date forever etched in my memory. I endured 16 rounds of chemotherapy. Each session drained me physically and emotionally, but I held onto hope and resilience.
Following chemo, I had a mastectomy and breast reconstruction. The surgery was tough, but it gave me a renewed sense of agency and optimism. Then came five weeks of radiation—short daily sessions that left lasting effects on my body.
Life After Treatment
Healing didn’t end when treatment did. Recovery was slow, and at times, deeply emotional. I was fortunate to be surrounded by family, friends, and a supportive work environment that gave me space to recover. The physical pain faded eventually, but redefining my life after cancer—finding my “new normal”—was the real challenge.
Today, I am proud to stand as a breast cancer survivor. My story is proof that with determination and hope, even the darkest chapters can lead to something meaningful.
Giving Back and Moving Forward
Surviving cancer gave my life a new purpose. I now dedicate myself to raising awareness about the importance of early detection and screening. I mentor newly diagnosed patients and work closely with the American Cancer Society to provide support and resources.
Whether through speaking engagements, my book You Are Being Tested, Do Not Worry, or one-on-one coaching, I’m committed to helping others navigate their own battles with strength and positivity.
A Message of Hope
To anyone currently going through cancer treatment: you are not alone. The road is hard, but you are stronger than you know. Cancer may be a chapter in your life, but it doesn’t define your whole story. Keep fighting, keep believing, and keep moving forward. If I made it through, so can you.
Read More:
On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations
Breast Cancer in Younger Women: Navigating Survivorship, Surgery Choices, and Lymphedema with Dr. Kohli
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