Breast Cancer: Stefanie's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Stefanie London was diagnosed with breast cancer without a family history of the disease. The diagnosis was difficult to absorb, and the prospect of surgery felt especially daunting because her previous hospital experiences had been related to psychiatric care rather than physical illness.

Stefanie underwent surgery and initially did not expect to need chemotherapy. After surgery, she learned that chemotherapy and radiation were also necessary. She completed chemotherapy while continuing yoga when she could, then finished radiation and rang the bell marking the end of treatment. Her husband, Jonathan Reich, supported her through appointments, injections, treatment days, and recovery.

Mental health care was an important part of Stefanie’s cancer experience. Her oncology team coordinated with psychiatric oncology and her outside providers so medications and support could be managed alongside cancer treatment. She felt that this coordination helped her avoid a major depressive episode during a difficult year. After active treatment ended, Stefanie had to adjust to losing the structure and identity of being a patient. She continued using yoga, gratitude, and memories of getting through chemotherapy as reminders of her resilience on difficult days.