Deuces, Cancer: Lisa’s Breast Cancer Story
When I was almost 40, I did what many women are encouraged to do—I scheduled my first mammogram. I never imagined that this routine screening would uncover something that would change my life forever: breast cancer.
Now at almost 43, I look back on my diagnosis and cancer journey not just as a medical experience, but as a deeply personal transformation.
Diagnosis
My mammogram was ordered by my primary care provider, Judy Mitchelson, PA-C, from Bronson Primary Care Partners in Galesburg. When the screening revealed a suspicious spot, I was called back for a 3D mammogram. Right after that, I had an ultrasound. That’s when the radiologist came in and said the words that would alter my life forever: “I believe you have cancer.” You’re never prepared for those words. It felt like a scene from a movie—I couldn’t hear anything else.
Thankfully, I wasn’t alone. My wife, Tricia, who’s a nurse at Bronson, was by my side. She became my fiercest advocate. Tricia helped me ask the right questions and understand what was happening. She was also pregnant with our second child, which made the diagnosis even more emotional. I just kept thinking, “I can’t leave them.”
My diagnosis was also made easier by Erin, my nurse navigator. She stepped in right away with support and even gave us books to help explain cancer to our two-year-old son. It was such a tough day, but Erin made it easier.
A week later, a biopsy confirmed everything. I had breast cancer: invasive ductal carcinoma with lymph node involvement.
Treatment and Triumphs
My oncologist was Sunil Nagpal, MD. He was amazing! He always knew where I was in my treatment without needing to ask. He listened to every concern I had.
My treatment started with chemotherapy—16 rounds in total, including four of Adriamycin, 'the red devil,' and 12 of Taxol.
Chemo was a whole different ball game. The nurses at Bronson were amazing. I never felt like just a number. Everyone I met was kind and supportive. Even now, I know I could walk into the infusion floor at Bronson Cancer Center and they would know me. To stay positive, I drew strength from my experience as a tackle football player for the West Michigan Mayhem. My jersey number was 22, and my support team and I adopted the motto 'Deuces, Cancer.' We made signs for each chemo session to keep spirits high.
I had a double mastectomy in mid-July with 25 lymph nodes removed – 8 of them were cancerous. Surgery revealed that my cancer was stage 3A. I had 25 rounds of radiation and then a DIEP flap reconstruction, an invasive surgery that takes fat from your stomach to reconstruct your breasts without implants.
I’m so grateful I had the time and professional support to decide what was best for me and my body.
The Unexpected Challenges
My journey didn’t end with reconstruction. I developed an infection that required strong antibiotics, which ended up damaging my Achilles tendons. I’ve since had two tendon replacement surgeries. I also had a full hysterectomy to help prevent my hormone-positive breast cancer from coming back.
Advocacy and Advice
I’m passionate about supporting others facing breast cancer. I encourage everyone to do self-exams and get annual mammograms. My very first mammogram saved my life. You can do everything right and still get cancer.
To anyone newly diagnosed, my advice is to start by taking a deep breath. The journey ahead will feel overwhelming, but grounding yourself in the moment helps. Do what’s right for you —there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to cancer treatment. Be your own advocate; ask questions, speak up and make sure your voice is heard. And don’t forget that your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. Reach out for help when you need it. Ask your doctor for medication, find a therapist, lean on loved ones or find a support group. You don’t have to go through this alone.
A New Normal
I continue to have regular bloodwork and remain on medication. Life after cancer is different. You’re never the same. It’s a new normal, and that’s OK.
I still get emotional when sharing my story, but I’m glad when I can share what I’ve learned. I hope my story can help other people feel empowered and hopeful.
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