What happened, in summary

LaShae, a PhD student in cancer prevention research, first noticed a small movable breast lump but pushed it aside while trying to keep up with graduate school and powerlifting. By late 2023, the lump had grown and become painful, so she finally brought it up during a wellness visit in January 2024. Her doctor ordered both an ultrasound and a mammogram. Imaging showed multiple masses and calcifications throughout all 4 quadrants of the breast, and biopsy confirmed cancer. Breast MRI showed disease in the breast and lymph nodes, while PET scan results were a relief because the cancer was localized to the breast and nearby lymph nodes. LaShae had a simple mastectomy with flat closure on her 27th birthday. After surgery, 2 lymph nodes were positive, and MammaPrint testing showed high risk for recurrence, so chemotherapy became part of her treatment plan. She was also taking Zoladex to preserve ovarian function for future fertility. Because her Stage IIB cancer was ER-positive, radiation and 5 to 10 years of hormone therapy were also planned. As of May 2025, LaShae was undergoing chemotherapy while continuing to powerlift in Miami, stay connected to research, and advocate for adolescents and young adults with cancer.