Invasive Lobular Carcinoma: Kristie's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Kristie had worked in healthcare quality improvement and had always emphasized early screening. In June 2021, during a routine physical, she scheduled her annual mammogram for the next day. She expected another uneventful result, but a few days later she was called back for additional views because of calcifications. The radiologist recommended a biopsy while reassuring her that it was very likely not serious. After nearly a week of waiting, Kristie learned she had invasive lobular cancer. She reached out to friends, began researching lobular breast cancer, and found the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance. The next 10 days were filled with appointments and the realization that the cancer was more extensive than first expected. LBCA information helped her understand why ILC can be difficult to detect and why it may need more subtype-specific research and treatment thinking. By 2023, Kristie had gone through 20 weeks of chemotherapy, 25 radiation treatments, 2 years on Verzenio, side effects from estrogen blockers, and 5 surgeries, including a hysterectomy and failed reconstruction. As of August 2024, she was using her experience to advocate for better detection, more research, and additional imaging access for women with dense breasts. Her healthcare background made the missed reassurance feel even more personal and urgent.