Mary Bowermaster’s Story

Site created on January 19, 2021

Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer in January, 2021.  This Caring Bridge was set up to keep friends and family up to date on her treatment. Welcome to our CaringBridge website. 

Newest Update

Journal entry by Mary ONeil

I received positive news from the doctor this week.

Chemo - Confirmed that chemo will not be needed!  🙌 

Genetic Testing - While I don't have the official appointment to review genetic testing until next week, I do know that all 84 genes that were tested were negative, including BRCA!  This is great news for me and for the entire family.

Radiation - Start date for radiation is pending, but I have completed the initial CT scan, tattoos and I'm ready to get started ASAP. The insurance initially denied the claim as being "experimental."  It was a carrier error, but is requiring my doctor to jump through a few hoops.😡 

My biggest challenge at the moment is re-entering work and trying to get back up to speed.  The pace at Jeffco is so fast that if you miss a day, you've missed a LOT.  So, multiply that by a month....and you start to see the issue.  My wonderful team and co-workers continue to support me and fill in where I can't.  I will be forever grateful to them.😍 

My other challenge is dealing with the irritation of denied claims.  I have been with this carrier for many years, although on a different plan and I have never had problems with denied claims before.  This is a stress I would rather do without, but just another thing that must be dealt with.

The doctor is placing me on intermittent leave, so I will have the flexibility to go to appointments and take time off as needed.  The radiologist, Dr. Patel, said that radiation can cause fatigue for 4 or more weeks, so it is really great to have this flexibility.

I  appreciate all of the texts, cards, and other outreach.  I feel the love and support.  Thank you all so much for your concern!
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