How I faced stage 3 breast cancer: My story and why early detection matters
In 2016, my world changed forever when I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. I still remember the moment I noticed a dimple on my right breast—one of the key signs of breast cancer. I felt shocked, scared and overwhelmed by uncertainty. Cancer was something that happened to other people, not me. I’m a nurse! But as I sat in the doctor’s office hearing those words, I realized that cancer doesn’t discriminate, and I was now facing the toughest battle of my life.
My treatment was both physically and emotionally exhausting. I went through chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, and radiation. Each step had its own challenges. I lost my energy, my hair, and my nails, and my skin changed drastically. I now have scars that remind me of my journey. But beyond the physical toll, the emotional impact was even harder. I felt like I lost part of who I was, struggling with my identity as a woman; going bald and losing my natural breasts was the most devastating. It was one of the darkest times in my life. However, with faith and the support of my children, close friends and my National Association of Hispanic Nurses Familia, I found the strength to keep fighting.
I was diagnosed at stage 3, but I often wonder how different things would have been if my cancer had been caught earlier. Like many cancers, breast cancer is easiest to treat when it’s found in its early stages. That’s why regular routine screenings—like mammograms—are so important. It’s also important to know what’s normal for you and pay attention to any changes in your body.
Too often, we put off these screenings because we’re busy, we feel fine or we don’t think it can happen to us. But breast cancer can strike at any time. Early detection could be the difference between a more manageable stage 1 diagnosis and a more advanced stage like mine. I had received an abnormal mammogram result, but a follow-up ultrasound indicated that I had fibrocystic breasts and needed to return for another check-up within a year. My busy lifestyle and the mindset that, “it can’t happen to me” delayed my follow-up care. I kept telling myself, “I need to go in… I should go in…” until the signs became unavoidable. There was no denying it—I had cancer!
As a Hispanic woman, I also learned some shocking facts about cancer in my community. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis among Hispanic women in the U.S. While Hispanic women are less likely to get breast cancer compared to white women, we are more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age and more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Hispanic women are also less likely to complete routine breast cancer screenings, leading to a higher chance of being diagnosed at a later stage. These increased risks may be due to factors like a lack of health insurance, limited access to care, language barriers and delayed follow-ups after abnormal screenings.
My experience has inspired me to speak out about the importance of early detection and screening. I urge everyone—men and women—to be proactive about their health. Know your family history, talk to your doctor and get regular screenings. Cancer doesn’t wait, and neither should you.
If you or someone you love is going through this battle, remember that you are not alone. The journey is tough, but there is hope. Day by day, we build resilience, and with early detection, you give yourself a fighting chance for better outcomes.
As I continue my healing journey, I hope my story inspires others to take action! Routine cancer screening is a form of self-love—and it could save your life.