Stage I Invasive Lobular Carcinoma: Chickie's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Chickie was 76, married to her high school sweetheart for 54 years, and living an active retirement-community life in Reno, Nevada, when an annual screening changed everything. In March 2023, she was called back for diagnostic screening and ultrasound, then had biopsies in both breasts. A few days later, the radiologist told her she had invasive lobular carcinoma in both breasts. The diagnosis shocked her so much that she asked him to spell the type of cancer. Her care team included a surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist. Chickie began researching ILC immediately and found the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance, where the Questions for My Doctor guide helped her prepare for appointments. After reading about ILC, she assumed she would need a bilateral mastectomy. Instead, her surgeon recommended bilateral lumpectomy, and surgery took place about 2 weeks later. Her surgeon achieved clear margins, and the 4 lymph nodes removed were negative. Each tumor measured 1.8 cm. Her Oncotype DX scores were 16 and 17, so chemotherapy was avoided. Chickie then received photon radiation at her local medical facility. Her advice to other ILC patients was to stay informed and bring someone to appointments who can help advocate. She felt fortunate to have a strong medical team.