She is an early breast cancer (EBC) survivor who is diagnosed with hormone receptor–positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative (HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (MBC). A resolute and selfless caregiver, she’s determined to protect her friends and family from her condition. She’s always been a strong, independent woman, but this diagnosis has revealed a vulnerable side, as her unpredictable condition worsens beyond her control and she is forced to rely on others for care. Through it all, she puts on a brave face to avoid burdening her loved ones because they are so important to her.
I’m in shock. I never actually thought I’d be one of the unlucky few to get a metastatic diagnosis with no cure. What did I do to deserve this? I’m still haunted by my first battle with cancer and I’m terrified thinking about how the new treatments will impact my life. However, I’m willing to do whatever it takes to delay the inevitable so I can spend as much time as possible with my family. I beat this once and I plan to fight just as hard this time.
We have a history together from her fight against EBC, so this diagnosis was really hard on both of us. I warned her there was a chance of developing MBC down the road, but I still feel like I let her down. In the past, I presented the best treatment plan for her, but this time there is no standard roadmap of treatments. It’s more difficult in the metastatic setting, but there are options. I have to make sure that we’re partners in making treatment decisions that align with her goals. At the same time, I have to be realistic. I don’t want to give false hope.
I thought she beat this, so I’m shocked she came back with this bad news. I know I need to be strong for her, but I’m having trouble doing that as I process the fact that this disease will ultimately kill her. I want to be supportive, but I have no idea what that means at this point.