10/31/2025
When Monica began looking for a new primary care doctor, she turned to someone she trusted—Dr. Lisa DiStefano with Saint Luke’s Primary Care–Southridge. As a nurse, Monica was used to being hands-on with her own care, but Dr. DiStefano took the lead.
Dr. DiStefano created a care plan that included a mammogram. Monica couldn’t recall her last screening, but she knew she was due—and Dr. DiStefano stressed that she complete it before anything else. The mammogram revealed a small spot on Monica’s right breast.
“I would never have gotten a mammogram if it weren’t for Dr. DiStefano,” Monica said. “She made me get the mammogram, and it saved my life.”
An ultrasound and biopsy confirmed an 11 mm invasive ductal carcinoma, which would continue to grow if left untreated. Because it was caught early, the tumor hadn’t spread. Dr. Elizabeth Butler, a breast surgical oncologist with Saint Luke’s Surgical Specialists, was able to remove the tumor, along with two lymph nodes.
Monica is deeply grateful for the support of her care team.
“I’ve had all these wonderful people who have helped me make choices and been there for me,” she said. “I felt like I had this whole team behind me, along with my family.”
Monica recently completed five days of radiation with Dr. Zachary Nicholas, a radiation oncologist with Saint Luke's Radiation Oncology Specialists. She celebrated by ringing the cancer-free bell surrounded by her care team and family.
Now, she encourages others to be proactive about their health and undergo regular screenings, reminding everyone that early detection can make all the difference. 🩷
