Anna’s Story

Site created on November 12, 2023

As many of you have heard by now, on November 3rd, Anna, at only the age of 30 (or 25 + 5 years experience if you ask her) was officially diagnosed with Invasive Ductile Carcinoma (Breast cancer). Further tests and scans have confirmed the diagnosis and it’s been revealed to be a stage 2 grade 3 malignant tumor (fast growing tumor). After noticing a small lump a couple months ago, Anna was finally able to get a mammogram in late October. The clinic was reluctant at first due to her young age, but ultimately the scans revealed a questionable mass of 2.4 cm x 1.4 cm x 2.7 cm on her left breast. The mass has already grown to 2.7 cm x 1.9 cm x 2.9 cm in the 3 weeks since the mammogram was performed and they found a 2nd smaller 1.0 cm x .7 cm x .9 cm unknown type of mass in a recent MRI, but fortunately, the test didn’t show any signs of it spreading to her lymph nodes. Luckily, Anna’s team of Dr.’s here at the Sanford Cancer Center in Bemidji are optimistic that this is very treatable cancer. However, with as fast as it’s growing, they want to be as equally aggressive with her treatment. Anna’s current treatment plan will consist of 4 cycles of Chemotherapy every 2 weeks using both Adriamycin and Cytoxin, followed by 12 more weeks of therapy using Taxol. At some point, Anna will also be undergoing a double Mastectomy (due to her age, and breast structure, it makes the most sense), followed by reconstructive surgery as well.

Anna recently started a new job working for the State of Minnesota for the Ninth Judicial District, however being that she just started, she doesn’t qualify for FMLA and has already used up what PTO she has been able to accrue so far. On top of the Ankylosing Spondilytis she already battles with daily, she has a tough, but achievable, road to recovery ahead of her. Being that she has a long journey to recovery ahead, Anna will likely be missing a lot of work due to her chemo regimen and recovery. She is currently doing what she can to support herself and her daughter, Layla, but will be working the bare minimum in effort to keep her insurance from lapsing with her employer and also not shoulder Scott, her boyfriend of 2.5 years, with the entire financial load of maintaining their home life.

Anna has proven that she is a fighter with what she has already dealt with in her life and is anxious to beat this as well, so that she can continue to move forward with her life.

Newest Update

November 29, 2023

Journal entry by Cherise Larson —

Offta it’s been a busy week for Anna and it’s Only Wednesday!!  Okay where to begin, lots has happened in a very short period of time.   What we do know!  Anna has Stage II Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, which is classified as a grade III meaning aggressive and fast growing.  Last week Anna was sent to Fargo for a diagnostic MRI in preparation for her upcoming treatment.  At that time the treatment plan would be as follows; surgery to place port, 10 weeks of Chemo cocktail 1, 10 weeks of Chemo 2, followed by a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery.   

MRI results identified a second mass in the same breast.  Initially the treatment plan was to continue as planned beginning with her first round of Chemo yesterday.  Unfortunately Anna received a phone call late in the week, letting her know that additional test results came in and there is concern regarding the second mass not being the same type of cancer.   Anna and her mom made the long trek from Bemidji to Fargo again yesterday to have a second biopsy completed.   Today will be Anna’s first round of Chemo as she awaits the results from her second biopsy.  

I wanted to express a huge thank you to everyone that is already donated to Anna’s GoFundMe account,  there are no words to describe how grateful we all are for your support.  If you would like to help we will be hosting a benefit in January and are looking for volunteers as well as silent auction items!  Please let us know if you’d like to help or send donations for the auction please feel free to contact myself Cherise @ 763-587-1002 or Brenda Anna’s mom or Mandy.  

Read More of the journal titled "November 29, 2023"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Anna Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Anna's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for Anna

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top