10/22/2025
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are sharing real stories from our brave patients who have faced breast cancer with strength and resilience, which brings us to Nancy.
When Nancy went for her routine mammogram in July 2023, she wasn’t worried. “I had no warning signs,” she says. “I’ve had to get ultrasounds before due to dense breast tissue, so I thought it was routine.” But after the ultrasound, things changed. “The nurse told me I needed to see the Breast Surgeon right away.” Still, Nancy wasn’t too concerned. “I had no family history of breast cancer, and I’d had a benign cyst removed almost 20 years ago.” After a biopsy, though, it became clear she’d need surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Choosing Alliance Cancer Specialists was easy. “My brother had been treated by Dr. Dold and fully recovered from colon and liver cancer. I knew how compassionate the Alliance team was. Nancy preferred a female doctor and was connected with Dr. Sramila Aithal. “I felt at ease with her right away.”
Even with the tough news, Nancy stayed hopeful. “I never let myself think the worst. I told myself, ‘You got this!’ I was in good health, exercised regularly, and had a strong support system.” Her family, friends, and coworkers encouraged her throughout. “I wasn’t going to let cancer get the best of me.” Though Nancy stayed positive, chemotherapy was tough.“ After two rounds of the ‘Red Devil,’ my body needed a break.” Staying hydrated was her biggest challenge. “I had to get fluids up to three times a week.” She also dealt with fatigue, weight loss, and muscle aches. “Every day was different, some better than others.” Her husband, Bill, daughter, Jill, and son, Bill Jr., were by her side. “They handled the household, came to appointments, and catered to my cravings.” Work also kept her focused. “My employer was accommodating, and staying busy helped me stay mentally strong.” Nancy learned to accept support from others and even found confidence in her appearance -embracing the changes, like hair loss, with grace. “People still told me I looked pretty, even without makeup.”
For others facing cancer, Nancy’s advice is: “Stay positive. It helps you through the challenges.” She also stresses early detection. “That call about the mammogram mobile may have saved my life.” Now back to work full-time, Nancy is grateful. “I’ve learned not to stress over what I can’t control, and I’m thankful the hardest part is behind me.”
Thank you, Nancy, for sharing your story with us. We are truly honored to be apart of it and hope your story will inspire hope in others.
To learn more about our practice, schedule an appointment, or find a location near you, visit us online: AllianceCancer.com
