Jennifer's interview
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How did all start?
I was diagnosed with a giant benign fibroadenoma when pregnant. Had a lumpectomy after giving birth and pathology indicated it was a giant malignant phyllodes tumor.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
The tumor was palpated in August 2017. I had a mammogram and biopsy in October 2017. Results came back as a giant fibroadenoma - 6 cm. Had a lumpectomy July 2018 and it was found to be a malignant phyllodes tumor and had grown to 18 cm long. The tumor had started to mutate into a liposarcoma. The tumor has not metastasized.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I have had a lumpectomy and mastectomy in the last month. I’m waiting on pathology for margins. I will be doing radiotherapy and possibly chemo.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
I feel that life is so precious and in love with life. I’m filled with hope and faith.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
The tumor was so large and very malignant. Before I received the initial CT scan results I was terrified that the disease had spread. The prognosis is general good if the tumor does not spread or reoccur. I was relieved and felt like I was given a second chance at life when I was told it hadn’t spread. Also I just had a simple mastectomy and my whole right chest is numb. I’m not sure if this will subside or not. It has been very difficult not being able to pick up and provide day to day care for my 7 month old Tyler. And I can do limited activities with my 4 year old Cody. My husband Jeremy has been super dad and has been absolutely amazing taking care of all of us!
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Amazing. I started a FB group for close friends and family to keep them updated on my condition. I also started a meal train for 2 weeks after surgery. All the love and support has made a huge difference.
What things have you stopped doing?
I just had a mastectomy so pretty much everything. I have a 7 month old and 4 year old so it’s hard not being able to pick them up or completely care for them. This is only short term until my incision site heals.
What do you think about the future?
I have high hopes. I think after treatment over the next few months I’ll be cancer free. I feel that I’m in good hands at UCSD.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Love
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Be as happy and healthy as you can. It will help your body during recovery and I believe boost your immune system and lower chance of reoccurrence.
