Renee’s Fight Against Breast Cancer

On March 7th of this year, I received the scariest, most unexpected news of my life! After a routine Mammogram with no physical signs or symptoms of anything wrong and several other tests, I sat at the Breast Center at LVH-Cedar Crest and listened to the doctors tell me that I have Stage 1 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer! Since March I have undergone multiple scans, MRIs, several biopsies, genetic testing and a partial mastectomy. My doctors were certain since my tumor was small and I did not have lymph node involvement that I would just need radiation treatments and medication for 5-10 years! All that changed once I received my genetic test results along with my Onco Score. I am now having to undergo Chemotherapy treatments, followed by possibly more surgery and radiation! I started my 1st Chemo this past week and I will continue receiving treatments every 3 weeks from now until the end of July due to my high Onco Score and Chek2 gene which increases my breast cancer risk 20-40% and also places me at a higher risk for Colon Cancer. This has been a difficult time for myself and my family. My fiancé has missed countless hours of work so he can be there for every appointment, test and procedure to ensure I am not alone. I also have had to take countless hours off from my job as a RN in order to go through this process and I am nowhere near my finish line. We have 3 children-15 year old twin girls who have been absolutely amazing at stepping up to the plate and helping take care of me and their 16 month old brother all while keeping a strong smile on their faces while I know deep down they are scared!!! I am asking for help to allow me to continue to travel for my treatments and appointments in the Lehigh Valley Area. My insurance covers some but not all costs-co-pays, deductibles etc are my responsibility and the bills at this point are overwhelming especially with decrease income due to my circumstances. If you cannot afford to donate, I ask that you keep me, my fiancé and our precious children in your thoughts and prayers as we continue to navigate this difficult journey! I hope to be able to post updates on here as I am able. My 1st treatment left me pretty debilitated for several days and I am battling fatigue and joint pain from the shots I am receiving after treatments. Thank you for taking time to read my story! Those that know me well, know I am not one to give up very easily and I will fight this to the end despite how hard it may be! My family needs me to come out on the other end of this stronger, healthier and ready to live again!!!!!