Suzan’s Story

Site created on November 25, 2010

In October, I found a place on my breast that I actually thought was a bug bite. Heeding the advice of a few friends, I made an appointment with my doctor. She immediately scheduled me for a diagnostic mammogram and an ultrasound on Friday, November 12. After this, I had a biopsy on Monday the 15th, and the results of this biopsy were shared with me two days later by the radiologist. She told me that the tumor was malignant and that I had breast cancer. Needless to say I was in shock.

With the help of dear friends, Janet Shomaker and the Konomos family, I was able to get recommendations and appointments with a well-respected surgeon and an oncologist within a few days along with an MRI. My family and I feel so fortunate to have Dr. Dudrick performing the surgery.

The type of cancer that I have is Infiltrating Lobular Carcinoma. It is Estrogen Receptor Positive which makes me a candidate for medication after surgery that will significantly reduce the risk of the cancer coming back, and the tumor is HER2 negative--which is good news. The MRI revealed that the cancer is localized to the one tumor. We will know more about the size of the tumor, the stage of the cancer, and if it has spread to the lymph nodes after the surgery.

Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, November 30th to remove the tumor and a few lymph nodes.

In the meantime, I have been able to stay unbelievably positive simply because of the unconditional support shown by so many people. The outpouring of love through prayers, phone calls, emails, texts, cards, gifts, laughs at lunch, hugs at Janet's home, and the caring for Carter during appointments has been inspirational and has kept my spirits lifted.  I am fortunate to also have a husband who sees his role in helping me fight this disease as both an honor and a privilege. I think the best gift that I can give my daughter is for her to see me go through this journey with courage, honesty and dignity which has been effortless so far with everyone's help.

I am prepared for a long winter of recovery from surgery, chemo, and radiation; but my hope is that I will be able to continue to be an active and contributing member of my community.

Newest Update

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Journal entry by Suzan Hutchinson —

I just completed six weeks of daily radiation treatments on Friday, July 29th. Dr. Bertolli, my radiation oncologist, and all of his staff made the treatments easy with their quick smiles and constant cheerfulness. 


After this final radiation session, I have officially completed active treatment for the breast cancer that I was diagnosed with back in November. Thanks to so many of you who made this journey easier with your continuous encouragement and support. I look forward to being able to thank each of you in person.


My medical oncologist, Dr. Panella, said that when I completed radiation that I would be considered to have NED--no evidence of disease. He said that if this continues for five years, I would be considered cured. Those will be welcome words down the road. 


For now, I have an appointment with my plastic surgeon in a few weeks to discuss my options for further reconstruction surgery, and I have an appointment with my medical oncologist so that I can begin taking the hormone blocking drug that I need to take for five years. Also, Carter and I are going to Florida for a mother/daughter trip to celebrate the end of cancer treatments.


Mostly, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has tirelessly supported me the past nine months. Thank you.


Love,

Suzan


Read More of the journal posted Aug 1, 2011
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