Dr. John Kehoe Breast Center

10/30/2025

Living One Day at a Time: My Breast Cancer Journey

When I first heard the words “you have cancer,” my first thought was I’m not going to be here to raise my children. At the time of my diagnosis, my sons were 4 and 8 years old. Through the biopsies, scans, and even as I laid down on the Operating Room table the day of the lumpectomy, my only thought was of them, how they might have to grow up without their mother.
Since my boys were so young, I didn’t immediately share with them that I had breast cancer. I shared that I was going to the doctor for a procedure on my breast. When I came home from the hospital, I showed them my heavily bandaged chest and asked them to be careful - not to jump on top of me. I told my sons that once I got better, I’d be able to play with them and hug them tight.
As a few years passed and they grew older, I began to open up more. I told my sons about my cancer diagnosis and the treatments I had gone through. I explained why, during our family vacations, I didn’t go out to the pool during the hottest hours of the day. My husband would take them to swim while I watched from the shade or inside the hotel lobby. It broke my heart to miss out on those moments, but after five weeks of radiation treatment, I was careful about exposure to the sun. Eventually, my sons started reminding me themselves: “Mami, stay inside so you don’t get all the strong sun rays.”
As my sons gradually learned about my breast cancer journey, our conversations deepened. I showed them my lumpectomy scar and explained what it meant. They would share how they felt, and I shared the ways I was taking better care of myself: getting a mammogram every year, making lifestyle and diet changes, and prioritizing my health so I could be here for them.
We began attending the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walks together. Those walks became more than events — they were celebrations of survival, community, and gratitude. Through my experience, I learned to live one day at a time. I stopped sweating the small stuff and cherish every milestone in my children’s life— birthdays, graduations, prom, college visits, athletic achievements, and college graduation. Each one has been a gift!
Every Mother’s Day, I thank God for allowing me to be here with my sons — tolove them, care for them and guide them. I also remind my sons, to give thanks to God, for allowing me to be here all these years with them. I thank God for Dr. John Kehoe, my breast cancer surgeon, whose compassion and dedication have supported me through 19 years of survivorship. Dr Kehoe’s care (and his team at the comprehensive breast care center in Brooklyn) has been a cornerstone of my journey and a reminder of how vital it is to have expert, compassionate medical support, and a relationship with a doctor you trust for your health care needs.
Nineteen years after my diagnosis, I’m still here — grateful, hopeful, and living life one day at a time. My journey has opened countless doors to connect with other women recently diagnosed with breast cancer and other types of cancer, especially women with young children. I share my story to help them prepare for the mental, emotional and physical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis and treatment and encourage them to stay hopeful!

Claribel Estrella Blake

10/23/2025

Our featured patient with our sonography tech is a short term survivor and is doing well. She and her mother had an interesting response to learning of her cancer diagnosis. Laughter can be powerful and here is used as a coping mechanism. All sorts of ways to respond to being told one has cancer.....

Through out my twenties, I would routinely go to Dr. Kehoe for breast exams,(he was treating my Grandmother at the time) due to breast cancer running in my family. Eventually as I got older, I started going for mammograms. Fast forward twenty years later to January 2024. I made my appointment for a mammogram, for a different concern. Lo and behold, a spot was detected that wasn’t there 6 months before during my last Mammo and the spot was no where close to what I originally came to be seen for. A few days after doing a biopsy, I was called to come in to the office. As I sat with my Mom, I just had a feeling and I knew what I was about to be told. When I heard the words, “your biopsy came back, and it’s cancer”, in one way I felt like I was hearing everything mumbled, but at the same time I was completely present in the moment. Due to my anxiety, my reaction may not have been the best as I had to talk myself down because my first reaction was to laugh- not because I thought it was funny, but because of my nerves.

I was officially diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer. See how the universe works? Thank goodness I went to check what I thought was a problem. I was terrified, but I snapped back to reality and all I could think was, “how do we get rid of this and what needs to be done next?” When I sat with Dr. Kehoe and he explained the next step would be a lumpectomy and then radiation. After that, I would be treated with Tamoxifen for 5 years, as well as a shot of Lupron every 3 months. These are treatments to block estrogen, as my cancer was not caused by the BRCA gene, I tested negative for that. My cancer was hormonal. Estrogen fed.

Before leaving the office that day, surgery was to be scheduled and it just so happened that I was off in the upcoming weeks for Presidents week. When I asked if it could be done during that week, there was time available to have my lumpectomy. My immediate thought was, “Excellent! I would’ve gotten it done yesterday if I could’ve! The sooner the better!”

Even though it was so soon after my diagnosis, I just knew I couldn’t waste time and wanted to get the cancer out as soon as possible, start treatment and begin my journey of survival and healing.
When my mother and I left the office that day, it was like we both got a punch to the gut as if we went 12 rounds in the ring, but it was only the beginning. Round 1. We looked at each other in shock & disbelief asking each other if this is really happening, and then the disbelief and watery eyes turned into us just looking at each other and laughing. This had to be some kind of joke, right? But it wasn’t. Nervous laughter strikes again.
On February 14, 2024, Dr. Kehoe performed my lumpectomy. He is amazing. He was able to get all of the cancer out, took some lymph nodes to biopsy (they came back negative thank goodness- my margins were clear and it was officially confirmed Stage 1) What a relief! After I was healed up enough (4-6 weeks due to delayed healing on my incision), I started radiation treatment. My last radiation treatment was on 8/22/24, the day before my birthday - What a gift!

Here we are in October 2025. I am a year and a half out & still in remission; continuing treatment and routine mammograms. With all of that said, I felt is was so important to share my story in hopes that it encourages people to go for testing and be aware of their bodies- and to just know that every cancer diagnosis is not always a sign of the end.
My story is one of many and each of our stories are different. Hoping each survivor’s story makes a difference and lets people know that they aren’t alone and together, we got this!

I am still finding out reasons why I may be feeling a certain way one day but not the next or why my anxiety was out of control - the meds, every day stressors - a combination. The journey goes on and like a wise man (Rocky Balboa) once said, “it's not about how hard you get hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward…that’s how winning is done!”

Stay proactive and positive. Mindset is everything and early detection is key!
Thank you to Dr. Kehoe, Kalecia, Brittany, Kristianna, Angela and staff for making a not so pleasant situation pleasant, and for all of your knowledge, care, support, compassion and smiles! I am forever grateful. You guys rock! Thanks a million 💖🎀

Onward and Upward 💪🏻

10/21/2025

If you read nothing from this site, take the time to read this post from one of our long tern survivors who has faced challenge after challenge after challenge…..She is the personification of SPIRIT and HOPE. If you have ever felt sorry for yourself when experiencing a set back in health or in your life, draw some strength from this survivor’s story. And don’t hesitate to give her a shout out as she faces her present challenges.…

In March 2009, when I was diagnosed with Stage 1 ER Positive, Her2 Neg Breast Cancer, I was going through fertility treatments and had to put my baby plans on hold. I am now a 16-1/2 year Breast Cancer Survivor, with the BRCA 2 Gene and now a THRIVER after being diagnosed 7 years ago with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer, and less than 2 years ago diagnosed again in April 2024 and still in the fight against MBC.

Soon after I was diagnosed, I had a double mastectomy where I was able to get implants wrapped in cadaver tissue, and allowed me to have a speedy recovery prior to my 8 rounds of chemotherapy. Just 2-1/2 short years after, they found a lesion on my thoracic spine which went on a “watch” after a failed biopsy. 3 years later, I had my ovaries removed to remove the risk of Ovarian Cancer. 2 years later after having multiple polyps removed from my uterus due to the drug I was taken, I had a hysterectomy. Then in 2018 just shy of my10 year mark, the lesion on my spine changed. We did a biopsy and confirmed my breast cancer metastasized and had one round of radiation, 5X the intensity and killed the tumor. Then in 2022, my implant had ruptured and had a choice to either replace my implants or to do the DIEP Flap, where they remove the abdominal tissue and make breasts, eliminating the implants, had an amazing recovery and back in the gym in 6 weeks. Then in 2024, tumors popped up on my tailbone and again, on my thoracic spine. After 2 failed drugs, I am now on a chemotherapy drug called Xeloda until progression getting monthly shots of Faslodex, along with bloodwork to monitor my tumor markers and white blood count, and Zometa infusion every 4 months (as of now, I made the decision to stop as it causes your bones to become brittle). This has now become a job, a life sentence.

Throughout my journey, I was overwhelmed with the outpouring support of not only my family but of my co-workers and friends. I feel that my purpose is to be a positive influence and a role model, not only to them but to their children. The cancer may have taken my fertility but not my inner spirit as a mom to my amazing stepsons, their children and to my godchildren who inspire and motivate me to always try to shine a light and look to me for guidance.

In 2017, I was given the opportunity to work with American Cancer Society as the Senior Community Development Manager overseeing the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer moving the walk from Prospect Park to Coney Island in Brooklyn. On a personal note, I do my best to take care of myself, as one of my passions is to work out amongst other activities to keep me healthy and strong. I believe in Life is for the Living! My motto is “Don't let Cancer get in the way of your Life, Let your Life get in the way of Cancer”.

I believe that life is for the living and make the most of what life has to offer. I am a contributing author for 2 books, offered my support to many survivors and have shared my story on several platforms ie Spartan Race at Tuxedo Park, where I was highlighted on CNBC Sports in 2014; 2016 for Breast Cancer Awareness Month on News 12 Brooklyn which sparked over 8,000 viewers, as well as, keynote speaker at Light Up the Night Pink in 2022 to mention a few.

Regardless of what I look like on the outside, it’s what you are going through on the inside. It’s been a journey one of which I do not take for granted. Although, I may have had more of a positive experience and outcome than most, I still go to bed at night at times feeling anxious, especially, when it’s time for my next follow up scan, wondering will this be the scan that will diagnose me terminal and need to put my affairs in order. Although, based on my medical team’s feedback combined with my determination, I believe that my purpose is truly to stand up to cancer, advocate and show woman, as I currently do right now, share my story, that you do not have to give into this dreadful disease and to keep on fighting for a cure, keep on looking for that silver lining, that will keep you motivated and inspired. Never give it power! Or it will overtake your life!

10/17/2025

The survivor we honored today is a long-term survivor. Not only has she survived breast cancer, but she has been active at our events and interacting with other great cancer patients. As noted here she has learned from her journey and her success and eagerly shares this with other breast cancer patients who are experiencing what she experienced years ago. Today she brings us up-to-date…

“This year I celebrate 25 years as a breast cancer survivor. When I first heard the words “you have breast cancer,” I thought my life was over. Everyone told me to take it one day at a time, and honestly, I didn’t believe it, especially given a year of treatment ahead of me. But then I met women who had been through the BC journey — who went on to travel, advance in their careers, have families and truly live again. Their stories gave me so much hope. Now, 25 years later, I find myself giving that same advice to others: take it one day at a time, trust your medical team and let love surround you. There is more life ahead than you can imagine!”

10/13/2025

Today’s featured survivor may have moved away from Brooklyn but has kept our office in her heart, with surviving breast cancer for 11 years and counting. Unable to make it in for a selfie hasn’t stopped her from showing support !

“ Our lives will never be the same again.” Since receiving the breast cancer diagnosis I kept repeating that phrase to my family. And my prediction came true, though I was interpreting it wrong. My initial interpretation was that my life would be filled with surgery, radiation, possible chemotherapy, and unending doctor visits. For a while, my interpretation of the prediction seemed true.
Looking back now, I can tell you the prediction was accurate. My life is changed forever. I adapted to my new life and learned how to take care of my health and well-being better than before the diagnosis. I exercise regularly, eat clean, and avoid as many toxins as possible. I am healthier and stronger than before cancer. It gave me the incentive to make my health a priority. In doing so, my life has never been the same again. I have become Debbie 2.0, and I have no plans on going back.

10/11/2025

Our featured survivor here recently celebrate 31.5 years of survival without
her breast cancer recurring.
She is pictured here in a selfie with Angela and Krissy from the office.
Angela and Krissy recently turned 32 and 30 respectively. They are part of
the “selfie” culture.

Thus, Angela was an infant and Krissy wasn’t yet born when our survivor’s
cancer first appeared and was treated. And at the time of her diagnosis,
the idea of posing for selfies had not yet exploded into the culture.

31.5 years of survival and counting, the lifetime of Angela and Krissy. It is
life that we celebrate on these pages with these survivors. 31.5 years
disease free is a long time and we congratulate her success. And keep
counting, please. Here is our survivor’s story in her own words…..

In April 1994, I was diagnosed with breast cancer in my left breast. My
Gynecologist referred me to Dr. John Kehoe. I met with him, as he studied my
mammogram. After some consideration and discussion, he gave me two
options:
1) Mastectomy
2) Lumpectomy
I kept thinking of a dear friend of mine, who went through breast cancer two
years earlier, and her cancer returned after having a Lumpectomy.

As a result, I decided that a mastectomy was my best option. Due to the
complexity of the additional procedures, I decided to forego any reconstruction
surgery. My husband agreed with my decision.

After the surgery, I faced 8 months of chemotherapy and 35 days of radiation
therapy. I handled everything quite well, especially with the backing of my family
and friends.It is now 31.5 years later, and I'm still doing well. I continue to see Dr. Kehoe once a year for my mammogram and sonogram. Although I still feel
apprehensive about the results of these tests, I consider myself fortunate to have
survived this and look forward to many more years.

10/09/2025

Why is the Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon pink and not peach?Interesting question. Peach is an equally feminine color. How did this pink folded ribbon become the symbol of breast cancer awareness? Another interesting question.

These ribbons are everywhere and have become a central part of our culture. Their origin in modern American life, interestingly, goes back to the Iran hostage crisis in 1979. In an attempt to bring awareness to the return of these hostages, one of the hostage’s wife started tying yellow ribbons to the trees in her yard. This caught on. Everyone wanted the hostages returned. Why a yellow ribbon? Likely it came from a 1973 song by Tony Orlando and Dawn—remember them? The song (“Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round The Ole Oak Tree”) was about returning home.

The Iran hostage crisis was in the late seventies into the 1980 presidential election that Jimmy Carter lost in part because of his management of this hostage crisis.

In this pink ribbon story, the Iran hostage crisis was followed by the AIDS crisis throughout the eighties, which built upon the yellow ribbon phenomenon. A bright red ribbon was launched to bring attention to the troubling AIDS crisis. The ribbon wasn’t tied, but was looped on itself.

Back to the peach or pink issue. In the late eighties a woman named Charlotte Haley had a strong family history of breast cancer. Inspired, she, started attaching peach ribbons to cards pleading with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to allocate more money to breast cancer research. She passed these out publicly in her campaign.

Self magazine wanted to popularize and expand this effort, as did Estee Lauder who wanted to pass these out at cosmetic counters to expand awareness of breast cancer. Ms. Haley resisted because they were too “corporate.” With a lawyerly sleight of hand, the folded ribbon was subsequently changed to pink by the magazine and Estee Lauder and the rest is history….

This Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon would then evolve in an array of different ribbons and presentations…..

10/07/2025

My staff over the last ten years has done a wonderful job organizing events around Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We’ve honored survivors and those not so fortunate with numerous events.

One of the most dramatic events was Lighting Up The Office Pink. Our present office is on Third Avenue in Brooklyn and has a broad front space, perfect for lighting events. Staff and invited folks and survivors would gather outside the office on the sidewalks and the street.

And, to much fanfare, the switch would be pulled and the office was then bathed in pink for the rest of the evening. We’ve even managed local press coverage for the event.

And the party would then move to the Irish Bar next door (Kitty Kiernans) for drinks and food….

10/06/2025

What follows is a reel compiled of a handful of the survivors that we initially presented in 2017 when Selfies With Survivors was rolled out. All were presented in a chosen selfie with a few words from the description of their experience in staring down breast cancer….

To start this we asked various survivors to come into the office for a selfie with myself and/or with members of our staff or to submit a personal one with anyone of their choice.

10/05/2025

Mammography continues to be vitally important in the improvement of survival rates from breast cancer. We are finding early and easily treatable cancers. Despite decades of efforts to find alternatives that are either cheaper or less intrusive, mammography has stood the test of time, despite the discomfort associated with it.

Mammography continues to be improved. We have gone from analog to digital with tomosynthesis. These improvements were in play in 2016 when this post was first done, but they have continued to evolve and to be implemented widely.

MRI has been widely used since 2016, especially for dense breasts. Sonography continues to evolve in partnership with mammography. And problems in the breast can now be easily accessed for tissue diagnosis.

All in all, these are remarkable and ongoing improvements. We are doing well. So, please, take advantage of these tests….

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH….
DECADES OF PROGRESS EACH DAY THIS OCTOBER….
31 DEVELOPMENTS THAT HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE….

October 4 (Day 4): THE RISE OF MAMMOGRAPHY: GETTING SQUISHED

Everyone likes to joke about mammography. It is a pretty bizarre test--having your breasts compressed between two cold steel plates while being told to hold your breath. Pretty sexy, huh?

I think the jokes come to relieve the anxiety. Anxious before the test, anxious while the test is being done, and anxious awaiting the results. We should prescribe Va**um a week before attempting the study.

Jokes and anxiety aside, this test's impact on our success cannot be overestimated, even though quantifying its precise contribution may be impossible.

Prior to mammography, breast cancer was found by noting a lump, noticing a change in the ni**le area, or experiencing a discharge. Now we find it before it is clinically evident.

Much of the activism noted at the beginning of this series had to do with encouraging women to do mammography. Out of this has come acceptance of screening by the medical community and insurance companies, improvements in technology, and regulatory guidelines that have improved and insured uniform quality.

Yes, the test is humiliating, painful, and anxiety producing. But let us not lose sight of its contribution. Countless women have benefited from the test. And we can all hope that a better test will emerge in the future.

10/03/2025

Greetings. It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is always a special time for this office. In the past we have tried to do something special for this month both locally in our community and on social media platforms.

Early on I wrote about 31 important developments and events in the progress that has been made in the treatment of breast cancer. This was developed into a small handout available in the office (Breast Cancer on the Run: 31 Days in October). I will be reshowing some of these entries throughout the month and updating new developments.

We have started programs around this month to highlight the brave breast cancer survivors in our practice. Early on we started a program called Selfies with Survivors. A selfie would be taken and the survivor would write about their journey. In the coming weeks we will highlight some of these stories, catch up on what has happened to some of these survivors, and add new entries.

During this month we have had special events, most notably Lighting Up The Office Pink. Nightfall comes early in October and we have occupied the street outside our office and arranged for the office to be lighted up dramatically in pink.

We have had fundraising events with bowling and golf. In all of these events we have tried to involve those outside the practice who contribute to the care of our patients.

Many thanks to all involved in making these events special and successful….

Stay tuned….

10/02/2025

This October we are bringing back SELFIES WITH SURVIVORS!!! If you are a breast cancer survivor please come in and take a selfie with Dr Kehoe (or your favorite staff member ) to be featured on our social media 🎀🎀