Adina’s Breast Cancer Survivor Story: Finding Strength Through Treatment

Breast cancer awareness matters throughout the year, not only during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Early detection, timely evaluation, and coordinated treatment can help patients better understand their diagnosis and available care options.

Adina’s experience shows how family support, patient advocacy, and compassionate breast cancer care can help someone navigate an unexpected diagnosis.

Receiving a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

On June 18, 2019, Adina learned that she had ductal carcinoma, a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk ducts.

She received the news shortly before Father’s Day weekend while spending time with her family at Tulloch Lake. Although she was worried about the results, she tried to remain present and enjoy the time with her husband, Fred, and their daughters, Camille and Sasha.

After dropping their daughters off at school, Adina and Fred took a drive and faced the diagnosis together. The news felt overwhelming, but Fred’s reassurance and support helped her feel less alone.

Choosing Breast Cancer Surgery

Adina soon met with her breast cancer care team to discuss her diagnosis and treatment options. After reviewing the recommended approach and asking questions, she chose to undergo a lumpectomy with a sentinel lymph node biopsy.

Her surgery was initially scheduled for July 11, but an earlier opening became available on June 27. Adina accepted the earlier appointment.

On the day of surgery, she relied on the support of her family as she prepared for the procedure. Recovery included nausea, pain, and discomfort, but her mother and husband helped her manage the days that followed.

Over time, Adina reduced her use of prescription pain medication and gradually returned to her normal activities.

Continuing Treatment After Surgery

Follow-up testing showed that the tumor was larger than initially estimated on imaging. Her care team updated her diagnosis and discussed the next steps in treatment.

Adina completed 28 radiation therapy sessions and began hormone therapy. Her treatment plan included regular injections and daily medication intended to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.

Like many breast cancer patients, she experienced both emotional highs and difficult days. Feelings of sadness sometimes appeared unexpectedly, but her family, work, and future plans gave her a continued sense of purpose.

She focused on enjoying everyday moments, spending time with loved ones, and planning vacations that had been delayed during treatment.

Adina’s Advice for Other Breast Cancer Patients

Adina encourages patients to build a dependable support system and remove unnecessary negativity from their lives.

She also emphasizes the importance of advocating for yourself. Patients should feel comfortable asking questions, discussing concerns, and participating actively in treatment decisions.

Her message is simple: allow yourself to experience your emotions, accept support, and stay involved in your care.

Comprehensive Breast Cancer Care in Walnut Creek

Adina’s story reflects the value of coordinated and compassionate breast cancer care.

The Breast Health Center at Gregory Rhodes, MD Cancer Center in Walnut Creek provides support for patients throughout the breast health and breast cancer care process. Services may include:

• Breast health evaluations
• Screening and diagnostic coordination
• Breast cancer surgery
• Medical oncology
• Radiation oncology
• Genetic risk assessment
• Supportive care
• Survivorship resources

Patients receive care from a multidisciplinary team that works together to develop an individualized treatment plan based on the patient’s diagnosis, health, and personal needs.

To learn more about breast health services or breast cancer care in Walnut Creek, contact the Breast Health Center at Gregory Rhodes, MD Cancer Center.