Family History and Unexpected Diagnoses: How Jamie and Tami Learned They Had Breast Cancer
Jamie Boettcher and Tami Salawater are no strangers to breast cancer. Their biological mother passed away from metastatic breast cancer when she was 52. While they were aware that their family history put them at an elevated risk for breast cancer, it still came as a shock when Tami was diagnosed in October of 2023 at the age of 50.
Just a few months after her annual mammogram came back clear, Tami discovered a suspicious lump that sent her back to her doctor. She was diagnosed with breast cancer on October 12. Her diagnosis reminded Jamie, six years her junior, that she was overdue for a mammogram. By October 31, Jamie was facing her own breast cancer diagnosis. “I had zero symptoms and was probably the healthiest I’ve ever been in my life, both physically and mentally,” she said. “I was numb; I had no clue it was coming.”
Facing Different Challenges: Jamie’s Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment Journey
Both women were diagnosed at an early stage, but different types of breast cancer. Jamie’s treatment plan for triple negative breast cancer included a lumpectomy, followed by four sessions of chemotherapy. It concluded with four weeks of radiation.
While she expected nausea and vomiting to be her main side effects, she was surprised when she lost of her fingernails and developed an acne-like rash on her head. “I felt embarrassed to say anything – like I was being vain – but I guess it happens a lot, so they prescribed me an oral antibiotic and within a week it was gone,” she said. “When you’re in treatment, it’s important to speak up and share any concerns with your care team, no matter how small they might feel. There are so many things they can do to help.”
Tami’s Journey: HER2-positive Breast Cancer Treatment and Adjustments Along the Way
Tami’s treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer began with a lumpectomy followed by 12 weeks of chemotherapy and Herceptin (HER2-targeted therapy). Four weeks of radiation treatment followed, and she will continue to receive Herceptin treatments every three weeks through January 2025.
She struggled with an upset stomach for several weeks before she mentioned it to her oncologist. They quickly adjusted her pre-meds, which alleviated the symptoms. “I didn’t have any problems after that, and I was like, man, I probably should have brought that up three weeks ago instead of waiting,” she said.
The Power of Sisters: Finding Strength in Each Other
The sisters leaned on each other throughout their treatments, often using one another as a sounding board.
“We don’t want to be going through this together,” Jamie said. “But because we are, we’ve been able to call each other and be able to say exactly what we were thinking – the anger, sometimes the swear words.”
Tami added, “We could say things to each other that we wouldn’t share with anyone else, and it was super helpful to have that support.”
Turning Pain into Purpose: Jamie and Tami’s Mission to Pay it Forward and Support Komen
The sisters were familiar with Susan G. Komen prior to their diagnoses and had participated in Komen fundraising events after losing their mom to MBC. “We were there in memory of our mom and to support other families impacted by breast cancer,” Tami said. “I never thought I would be on the other side of the table. I was lucky to receive a grant from Komen’s Financial Assistance Program, which helped with bills so I could focus on my treatment.”
Wanting to do something more to give back and support Komen’s work to end breast cancer, the sisters formed a team for their local MORE THAN PINK Walk – Survivor Sisters. “There’s not a good understanding yet about how and why things metastasize,” Jamie said. “Research is the only way we are going to learn the why, and Komen is at the forefront when it comes to funding research focused on metastatic breast cancer.”
Survivors/Sisters: Matching Tattoos a Symbolic Tribute to their Breast Cancer Journey
Not satisfied just to form a team, they also got matching tattoos with the words ‘sisters’ and ‘survivors’ written in Morse code.
“The tattoos commemorate our experience and remind us how important family is when you are going through breast cancer,” Tami said. “They spark conversations where we can talk about our experiences. If we can help just one other person not be afraid to get a mammogram or talk to someone, then it will all be worth it.”
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 healthcare provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.
