With Memorial, Melanie was Stronger than Breast Cancer
April 30, 2015
Melanie was only two months late for her annual mammogram. But by the time she had the screening, breast cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and liver.
“When I heard the news that I had stage 4 breast cancer, I wondered who was going to be with me to explain, comfort and win this battle with me,” said Melanie.
Memorial Breast Cancer Center’s multidisciplinary team was there.
“She had a type of tumor that responds well to chemotherapy,” said Ihor Pidhorecky, MD, medical director of Memorial Cancer Institute’s surgical oncology program. “Her oncologist immediately started chemotherapy.”
Melanie was stronger than cancer. She had a double mastectomy, and her liver tumor was removed. Radiation treatment followed, to prevent tumors from returning.
Memorial’s commitment to patient- and family-centered care meant Melanie’s husband, Michael, was involved at all times.
“They didn’t leave you in the dark,” Michael said. “And they’re going to fight with you, every step of the way.”
Melanie was Stronger than Breast Cancer with Memorial
