Shanise Pearce learned in October 2020 she carries the PMS2 and BRCA2 inherited gene mutations. Then, just three years later, she was diagnosed with stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This is her story in her own words.
A Family History Unfolds
In October 2020, a routine checkup revealed life-changing news. Because I have heavy menstrual cycles, my doctor recommended I undergo genetic testing. The results were shocking — I tested positive for the PMS2 and BRCA2 gene mutations.
These mutations heightened my risk for various cancers, altering the course of my life.
In January 2021, I began preventative care to address these risks and prepare for what might come. Our daughters, Naomi and Shadè, began their own journeys of discovery, undergoing genetic testing. By 2024, we learned that each of them carried PMS2 solely or both BRCA2 and PMS2.
My Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Even after a normal mammogram in January 2023, I remained vigilant. In October of that year, a breast MRI revealed I had stage 1, grade 3, HER- invasive ductal carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This was also known in the medical field as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Hearing those words shattered me. Cancer found its way into my life.
Family Strength
The impact of this diagnosis didn’t stop with me. My husband, Russell, became my caregiver, watching helplessly at times as I endured chemotherapy and surgeries. Though I was the one diagnosed, he suffered alongside me.
Our son, Russell Jr., was just 14, and the weight of my illness was too much for him to bear. He broke down in his sister’s arms, terrified of the possibility of losing his mother. It was a deeply painful time for us all, but through our struggles, we remained strong as a family unit.
Representation Matters
As a Black woman, I understand the unique challenges our community faces. Breast cancer doesn’t only affect women — it affects men too. And within the Black community, both women and men often face barriers to accessing health care, understanding risks and feeling represented in medical spaces. That’s why representation matters. When people see someone who looks like them survive breast cancer, it opens the door to questions, awareness, and, most importantly, action.
My community needs to know that early detection and awareness can save lives. It’s why I’m so passionate about giving back. When Black men and women see someone who shares their experiences and culture get through something as life-altering as breast cancer, they feel empowered to take control of their own health. If I can help just one person avoid the pain I’ve been through, it will have all been worth it.
The Genetic Thread
One of the hardest parts of this journey has been knowing that my daughters share my genetic mutations. As a mother, I want to protect them from everything, but the best way I can protect them now is by ensuring they are informed about their health risks. Knowledge truly is power. By knowing our genetic predispositions, we can make decisions that may save our lives.
I’ve seen firsthand how critical genetic testing is, not just for women but for men as well. My advocacy now includes pushing for awareness of genetic mutations like BRCA2, which can affect men through an increased risk of breast cancer and other cancers. We must get the message out — everyone, regardless of gender, should understand their risks and take action.
Paying It Forward
Through my breast cancer treatment, I received love and support that carried me through the darkest moments. That experience of community made me realize how important it is to give back. I am now committed to raising awareness, educating others, and fighting to close the health care gaps that disproportionately affect Black people.
I want to ensure that the next Black woman or man diagnosed with breast cancer doesn’t feel alone, silenced or overlooked. Whether it’s sharing my story, advocating for clinical trials, or pushing for better access to care, I do this work because our community deserves better. My journey has fueled my passion to make a difference for others.
A Call to Action for Black Women and Men
Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate. It impacts women and men alike, yet too often, Black women and men don’t see themselves reflected in the conversation about this disease. It’s crucial that we, as a community, learn to know our bodies and advocate for ourselves in health care spaces that may not always see us.
By normalizing conversations about genetic testing, knowing your normal and clinical trials, we can take charge of our health. Our lives depend on it. Early detection saved mine, and it could save yours, too. I urge my community to speak up, ask questions and demand the care we deserve.
A Survivor’s Legacy
Today, I am a breast cancer survivor, but my journey isn’t over. My fight now extends beyond my own survival. It’s about changing the narrative for Black women and men in health care, ensuring that we have access to the information and care that can save lives.
If I can help just one person avoid the pain I’ve experienced, if I can inspire just one person to seek early detection or genetic testing, then my work will have been worth it. This is my story — a story of survival, family and giving back. And it is a story I will continue to share for the sake of my daughters, my community and every person who needs to know that they, too, can survive.
Statements and opinions expressed are those 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.
