Invasive Lobular Carcinoma: Brenda's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Brenda was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma in September 2023. She had never heard of the subtype before. Her radiologist noticed what looked like a scar on her mammogram and recommended a biopsy. That extra step found the cancer at an early stage.

Looking back, Brenda recognized another change that had been difficult to explain. Over a couple of years, her breast size increased from 34B to 36D even though she had not gained much weight. She asked her primary care doctor and gynecologist about the change and was told it was probably related to fat, menopause and lower estrogen levels. After her diagnosis, the experience reinforced how important it was to keep asking questions when something in her body did not seem right.

About 2 months after diagnosis, Brenda had a double mastectomy with reconstruction. She did not need chemotherapy or radiation. At the time she shared her story, she described herself as cancer-free, while recognizing that lobular breast cancer can recur many years later.

Brenda used the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance to learn about symptoms, treatment questions and clinical trials. She later helped form a local advocacy team serving Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia, with the goal of raising awareness and supporting more research into lobular breast cancer.