Stage III Breast Cancer: Claritza's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Claritza, 51, is from Colombia and has been living with Stage III breast cancer for more than 3 years. Her early symptoms included frequent fevers, constant headaches, and significant weight loss. After diagnosis, she was told her estimated 5-year survival rate was 70%, and she sought another mammogram privately. The diagnosis brought a mix of fear, confusion, courage, and hope, but it also changed how she looked at daily life. She tried to eat healthier when she could and focused on spending more time with her parents and child. Her initial treatment plan included breast-conserving surgery by lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. When that plan was not working effectively, her care changed to immunotherapy and pain medication. Treatment side effects included hair loss, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting, which she managed with better nutrition and prescribed medication. Cancer also disrupted her finances: she lost her job and did not always have enough money to eat well. Even with those pressures, Claritza held on to optimism and faith. Her goals were to keep traveling, spend time with friends, see her loved ones happy and healthy, and continue living 1 day at a time.