Michele’s Story

Site created on October 17, 2019

Welcome to my CaringBridge Site! I will be using this site to share my story, post updates on my medical care and to let you know in what ways you can help support me and my family through this journey.

On October 8, 2019, 4 days before my 40th Birthday, I was scheduled for my very first Mammogram. I was told not to be surprised if I got called back for a repeat due to it being my first one. They need to establish a baseline and they tend to be real particular about your first one. I wasn't surprised when I was called back later that day to return for a second Mammogram 2 days later. The repeat images were taken and I was told I would need an ultrasound, due to dense breast tissue. The ultrasound was done and I was told I needed a biopsy. There was still something the Radiologist didn't like. He immediately performed the biopsy and sent me on my way. 

The following Wednesday, I got the dreaded phone call. "Mrs. Zimmerman, it's Cancer." Head spinning, hands shaking... I don't even remember the rest of the drive home. I was given the name of a person to call to schedule a consultation with a breast surgeon. I called her and I was scheduled for a surgery consultation the very next day. The appointment felt like drinking from a firehose but I now know that I have Invasive Mammory Carcinoma, Lobular and Ductal AKA "Mixed Type".  Clinically stage one. My tumor is small, 1.4cm (less than half of an inch). Until further testing is done, I don't know much more than this. I will post updates and journal entries. Until then, ladies, get your Mammograms done!

Love, Michele
October 17, 2019

Newest Update

May 01, 2024

Journal entry by Michele Zimmerman —

PET CT Scan this morning at 9 a.m. and my results are already in! A miracle in and of itself... It's as though God couldn't wait for me to get this amazing news!!

The radiologist's impression is that I have had a COMPLETE RESPONSE to chemotherapy and all previously seen lymphadenopathy of the neck, chest and abdomen has resolved. All lung disease, including all nodules and airspace disease has resolved. No new sites of hypermetabolism (cells that take up the radioactive glucose quickly, indicating cancer activity) have been identified from the base of my skull to my mid-thigh. No new tumors anywhere! 

Crying tears of joy and praise to God for sustaining me through the exact right # of treatments that I needed to kick this beast HARD! Take that cancer!!

All that being said, I'm not done with treatment. With the aggressive nature of this type of cancer, I will be on targeted therapy to keep it from coming back again. But for now, I'm celebrating that I AM DONE WITH CHEMO!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

Jumping for joy!! Shouting from the mountaintops!! THANK YOU, JESUS!!

Michele
Read More of the journal titled "May 01, 2024"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Michele Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Michele'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 Michele

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