Stage I Invasive Ductal Carcinoma: Suzanne's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Suzanne Kulliver had only just completed treatment for colon cancer when a routine annual mammogram in December 2015 led to another major diagnosis. Her doctor requested an ultrasound and biopsy, and Suzanne learned that she had breast cancer. The tumor was deep enough that she had not been able to feel it herself.

She was diagnosed with Stage I invasive ductal carcinoma. Suzanne underwent a lumpectomy and then received 6 weeks of radiation therapy. She completed breast cancer treatment in June 2016, less than a year after finishing treatment for her earlier colon cancer. The back-to-back diagnoses were emotionally overwhelming, and Suzanne described being terrified of dying as she tried to adjust to having cancer twice in such a short period.

Support from friends, family, and colleagues helped her through both treatment courses. After finishing breast cancer treatment, Suzanne said she felt great and returned to her busy life as a wife, mother, businesswoman, and regular exerciser. She also began preparing for an indoor cycling fundraiser supporting the American Association for Cancer Research, using her experience to raise money for research and hoping that future patients might have an easier path through treatment.