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Young Woman's Cancer Misdiagnosis: A Two-Year Battle
28 Nov
Summary
- Rash persisted for two years before a correct breast cancer diagnosis.
- Doctors initially dismissed symptoms as eczema or detergent irritation.
- Advocacy led to policy changes for young women's mammograms.
A young woman's journey through breast cancer began with a persistent rash on her breast in the summer of 2020. Initially dismissed by doctors as eczema or an allergic reaction, her symptoms worsened over two years, including bleeding and discharge. Obtaining a mammogram proved difficult due to age restrictions, despite her persistent requests and self-advocacy, highlighting systemic barriers to early detection for younger individuals.
Her breakthrough came when her mother insisted on demanding a referral, leading to an immediate mammogram and biopsy. The diagnosis was stage 3, grade 3 triple-negative breast cancer, a revelation that confirmed her suspicions. The subsequent treatment, including chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, was physically and mentally grueling, impacting her ability to parent and her self-perception.
Now two years in remission, she has transformed her experience into advocacy. She shares her story to raise awareness, particularly for women of color, and lobbies for policy changes to ensure younger women receive timely diagnostic screenings. Her ordeal has given her a profound sense of gratitude and a new perspective on life.
