Stephanie’s Story

Site created on September 16, 2019

If you know Stephanie at all (and you’re here so guessing you do), you will know she can be unfiltered, slightly inappropriate, hilarious, compassionate and kind - this site will be much the same. Stephanie will rely on her sister (Sara) to update the site.   


The back story: Steph was getting ready for bed late one night in June 2019 and brushed against what felt like a lump in her right breast. Bright and early the next morning, Stephanie called her sister who immediately asked if she needed a second opinion and offered to feel her boobs.  Within minutes, a lump was confirmed with plans for Stephanie to make a dr appointment the next day. 


Stephanie had an ultrasound and mammogram in early July confirming the presence of the lump. A biopsy confirmed what Steph’s ‘inner voice’ was telling her - Stephanie was diagnosed with Invasive   Ductal carcinoma in early August 2019 after discovering a lump. Since then, she has been to a flurry of doctor appointments and scans in the hopes of staging the cancer and prepping for surgery. It seems each scan and test brought more questions than answers. At this time, we know Steph has breast cancer that has metastasized to her lymph nodes and will be undergoing chemotherapy prior to surgery. 

Newest Update

Journal entry by Sara Fulkerson

Steph made it through surgery great. We were surprised to hear going in that there was some chance she could go home tonight. Her surgery ended up taking a bit longer so Steph is staying the night. We should have reports from pathology back late next week. 

Once again, Steph’s surgeon knew just what we needed to hear following surgery. Mom was trying so hard to hold it together and Dr. Bower reminded us it was okay feel whatever it is we are feeling. It’s a hard lesson to learn when you are used to holding it all together for the sake of those around you. She reminded us that by showing how hard it is when things are bad things it also let’s us celebrate how strong we were when we get beyond the hard parts. I told her how much we and Steph needed to hear those words. Steph is too good at not showing how hard it can be. Dr. Bower really connected with our little family, probably because she has sisters. 

Steph was in a considerable amount of pain following surgery. She didn’t expect to feel quite so much pain. We are praying they are able to keep her pain under control tonight, that she is able to get some rest and that she is able to go home bright and early tomorrow. 

Thank you for all of the prayers, kind words and good wishes. My big sister has always taken care of me, it’s nice to be able to repay her a little bit and take care of her for a change. 



Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Stephanie Stay Connected to Family and Friends

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

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

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

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top