Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Marissa's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Marissa Sweitzer’s breast cancer was found just after she gave birth to her daughter, Melody, in February 2024. Late in pregnancy, she had noticed a breast lump while applying lotion. Because breast changes are common during pregnancy, her doctor arranged for imaging after delivery. Before she left the hospital, Marissa had a breast ultrasound, her first mammogram, and a biopsy. Two days after giving birth, she was told the lump looked like cancer, and the diagnosis was soon confirmed. The full report showed triple-negative breast cancer. The disease was in her breast and some lymph nodes, but it had not spread anywhere else. A formal stage was not shared. Although there was a family history of breast cancer, Marissa did not have a breast cancer genetic mutation. Before starting treatment, she and her partner completed 1 round of in vitro fertilization in case they wanted another child later. Her treatment plan included months of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and 5 weeks of radiation therapy, taking about 1 year overall. Her family helped care for Melody while Marissa went through treatment. As of December 2024, Marissa had a complete response to treatment and no evidence of cancer, and she was looking forward to more time as a full-time mother.