Stage III Breast Cancer: Jodi's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Jodi found a lump in her breast and was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in September 2023. The news left her feeling empty and vulnerable, especially because she had already lost her mother to cancer, but she also felt determined. Jodi underwent a mastectomy to remove the tumour and continued treatment with tamoxifen. She declined the recommended chemotherapy and radiation therapy because she did not feel at peace with those options. She was told that her estimated five-year survival rate was about 40%. After diagnosis, Jodi made major dietary changes, choosing raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds while avoiding alcohol, processed sugar, meat, and dairy. Faith became central to how she managed fear and uncertainty. Her greatest concern was saying no to her oncologist, and she sometimes worried that the cancer would return. Prayer, worship music, survivor stories, and encouragement from others helped her redirect those thoughts. She also focused on spending as much time as possible with her children and contacting her parents more often. Jodi hoped to earn a holistic nutrition certification, start a podcast, and help others through knowledge. She described herself as confident, courageous, hopeful, inspired, and thankful while continuing tamoxifen treatment.