Rachel’s Story

Site created on May 31, 2020

I was diagnosed with stage IIIA, triple-negative, grade 3 breast cancer. In December, I noticed a lump in my left breast. Knowing that I had a mammogram coming up, I waited.  I've been called back after mammograms because of dense tissue and with no family history, I didn't think much of it. With spring break week being earlier in March, I didn't get anything scheduled before leaving on our trip to Orange Beach, AL.  As you know, mid-March COVID hit and our lives were basically at home now.  By the end of April, the lump was getting bigger so I called to get in.  On May 1st, I had a mammogram and ultrasound and they found a mass in my left breast and several lymph nodes enlarged.  A biopsy was performed on May 8 and it was confirmed as aggressive cancer with no hormones involved. After doing a full panel of genetic testing, it was determined that I have no markers for any type of cancer, including breast cancer. 

Newest Update

August 21, 2023

Journal entry by Rachel McGuire —

I finished radiation on Friday. Six weeks of going to Rochester on Monday and home on Friday. I can’t believe how fast it went. I have a bit of skin burning that I am dealing with but otherwise everything went smooth. I am home just in time for the kids to start school this week. 

Life is good and I am thankful for all of you. Thank you for all the prayers and support. I will continue with my immunotherapy until January. Infusions  are every three weeks but very manageable and very little side effects. 

Please say a prayer for my nephew Andy who was diagnosed with Leukemia a month or so ago. He’s a fighter but still has a long road ahead of him. And also a few friends have been recently diagnosed or dealing with recurrence. Pray for their health and healing and the medical staff that are treating all of us. 

Big hugs from me to you!
Rachel


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