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Young Woman Defies Odds, Conquers Breast Cancer Amidst PA School
17 Oct
Summary
- Diagnosed with malignant breast cancer at 26 while starting PA school.
- Faced dismissal due to young age before immediate biopsy recommendation.
- Balanced chemotherapy and classes, graduating as a physician assistant.
Andrea de Armas faced a daunting breast cancer diagnosis at age 26, just as she was beginning her physician assistant program. Initially, her concerns about a breast lump were met with skepticism from an ultrasound technician, who seemed to dismiss her due to her youth. However, a radiologist soon recommended an immediate biopsy, leading to the discovery of malignant cancer.
De Armas, who had no family history of breast cancer, learned she had a genetic mutation increasing her risk. Despite the diagnosis, she was determined not to let it derail her education. She underwent a lumpectomy during a school break and managed chemotherapy sessions early in the morning before attending afternoon classes. Her treatment plan was carefully coordinated to allow her to stay on track with her studies.
She later had a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction during winter break. De Armas successfully graduated from her physician assistant program in 2025 and is now working in the field, celebrating her first work anniversary in September. Now 30, she is cancer-free but continues hormone therapy due to the nature of her cancer. Her journey highlights the importance of young women trusting their instincts and seeking thorough medical evaluations.
