LaShae Rolle is working on her Ph.D. in public health, focused on cancer prevention research. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2024. This is her story in her own words.
When I first felt some pain in my breast, I thought it was related to the powerlifting, the bench press, that I do. Then I felt a lump, which didn’t seem normal. I went to my student health center and the doctor felt the mass. She said it could be fibrous tissue, but to be cautious, she sent me for an ultrasound and a mammogram.
When I called to make the appointments, I had push back. I was 26 and told I was too young. Finally, they scheduled me for an ultrasound and when the time came, when they put the ultrasound wand on my breast, the technician was shocked. That’s when I knew something was wrong, something was there. Nobody said breast cancer at that point. They talked about calcifications, but because of my background, I knew.
Soon I was diagnosed with ER-positive, stage 2B breast cancer. My diagnosis was shocking. Nobody in my family has ever been diagnosed with breast cancer. I tested negative for all of the inherited genetic mutations, including the BRCA mutation, which is highly prevalent in the Bahamas, where I’m from.
Shortly after my diagnosis, I learned that my fertility could be at risk due to the necessary treatments such as chemotherapy. Fortunately, with the compassionate guidance from my cancer center, I was able to explore options that preserved my hope to one day become a mother. The support I received was not only financial but also deeply emotional, making a significant difference in my journey.
My treatment has included a simple mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Balancing my treatment while pursuing my Ph.D. studies and maintaining my passion for powerlifting has been challenging yet empowering. I have returned to light exercise, including treadmill work and minor lower body machine work, and am gradually progressing in my powerlifting training. This physical activity has been a crucial part of my recovery, providing both physical strength and mental resilience.
My journey has taught me the value of advocacy and support for young adults with cancer, and I am committed to helping others navigate their journeys through similar challenges.
I’ve always been passionate about the work I do, but now that cancer has happened to me, I want to understand even more what is going to benefit cancer survivors. I want my work to be focused on improving the quality of life of cancer patients post-treatment. I’d like to implement exercise interventions because I think it can help improve some of the side effects of chemotherapy, some of the mobility issues from surgery or chemotherapy. I think it can be empowering for survivors to do something that can improve the overall quality of their life.
This experience has not only saved my life but also enhanced my quality of life, post-cancer, reaffirming my dedication to cancer prevention and survivorship research. I am grateful to be living the best life I possibly can and look forward to thriving, not just surviving, as I continue my fight against cancer.
Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.
Learn more about breast cancer issues for young women with breast cancer.
