Stage III Inflammatory Breast Cancer: Rhonda's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

In September 2001, Pastor Rhonda Holbert went to a routine medical appointment and underwent a needle biopsy. She was then told she had Stage III inflammatory breast cancer, a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. She was alone when she received the diagnosis and relied on her faith in the days that followed.

Rhonda received chemotherapy after her diagnosis. Her cancer journey also brought serious long-term health effects, including lymphedema, heart disease, and later a stroke and heart attack. She has spoken openly about how survivorship can continue to affect health long after initial cancer treatment.

Her experience led to a lasting role in patient support. While receiving chemotherapy, Rhonda noticed that patients often lacked connection and encouragement, so she began checking on people and bringing them together. That effort grew into the Celebrate Life Cancer Ministry. She now helps people navigate treatment, keep appointments, find resources, and manage barriers such as referrals, insurance approvals, and delays in access to care.

For Rhonda, survivorship became more than living longer. It became a commitment to helping other people through cancer, combining faith, practical support, and advocacy for better access to care.