What happened, in summary

Rachel’s Stage IB breast cancer was found after she delayed a routine mammogram for about 6 months. She had no symptoms, but 3D mammography showed a suspicious spot in the right breast. Ultrasound confirmed the finding, and biopsy showed infiltrating ductal carcinoma. Her cancer team met with her quickly, and she chose a double mastectomy even though the cancer was only on the right side. Genetic testing found something inconclusive, but not a clear result that could guide treatment. Surgery included removal of both breasts and placement of drains. Rachel stayed overnight, then recovered at home while adjusting to the physical reality of losing her breasts. After surgery, she received 4 rounds of chemotherapy every 3 weeks. Each infusion involved 2 bags, and during the second week of each cycle she gave herself Neupogen injections to support white blood cell recovery. Chemotherapy caused cloudiness, stomach problems, body aches, feverish feelings, hair loss, and fatigue. She did not have scans afterward because her team felt the mastectomy had removed all cancer. As of June 2026, Rachel was taking tamoxifen daily as a planned 10-year therapy and managing side effects including joint and muscle pain, weight gain, and early-menopause symptoms.