How a Young Mother Surpassed Every Expectation to Embrace Life Fully

Heather Jose was only 26 when she received a life-altering diagnosis in 1998: stage IV breast cancer that had spread to her bones. Despite her surgeon’s grim prognosis to get her affairs in order, she set one clear goal: live long enough to see her 14-month-old daughter, Sydney, enter kindergarten.

Seeking hope, she turned to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, where medical oncologist and scientific director Dr. Sofia Merajver provided a completely different outlook. After spending time learning about Heather’s family and daily life, Dr. Merajver encouraged small lifestyle changes—like drinking green tea and increasing vegetables—before launching a personalized treatment plan. Heather underwent four rounds of chemotherapy, which reduced her 5-centimeter tumor to an undetectable level.

Although the cancer had already spread, Heather’s medical team aimed to manage it rather than declare it incurable. She proceeded with a double mastectomy, radiation therapy, and a clinical trial that involved two stem cell transplants. Over the years, there have been recurrences, but new targeted therapies—including drugs like Herceptin—have played a significant role in controlling her disease. Regular scans every six months confirm the cancer remains stable, a result Heather considers a victory.

Nearly two decades later, Heather’s daughter is well past kindergarten—she is a college sophomore—and in 2002, the family adopted a son who is now 16. Heather returned to work as an occupational therapist, cherishing a life not solely defined by cancer. Recently, she launched Theramazing, a business devoted to developing innovative tools for children with sensory issues, including a weighted hat to help them focus in school.

As she reflects on her journey, Heather emphasizes that living with advanced cancer is both challenging and unexpectedly empowering. Each stable scan is another opportunity to push forward, whether that means traveling with her husband or working to help children through her business. With advancements in precision medicine offering new treatment options, her story serves as a beacon of possibility for others facing metastatic breast cancer.