Whitney Salts was a caregiver for her mother and grandmother when they were undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Whitney learned through genetic testing that there is a possibility she will develop breast cancer. This is her story in her own words.
My Mother’s Diagnosis
When my mother developed stage 2 invasive ductal carcinoma in 2011, we had no family history of the disease, which is the case for many people who are diagnosed with breast cancer. We were in shock, devastated and confused. I watched my mother go through 14 months of rough chemotherapy and five surgeries. No matter what, she never gave up hope. She fought and she fought strong.
The more we began to learn about breast cancer, the more I wanted to do. In 2011, I began to speak to people about cancer risks. I focused on early detection and inspiration through the experience of survivors.
My First Breast Cancer Scare
Although I had seen the effects firsthand of breast cancer with my mother, I never truly felt the fear of it until the moment I felt the lump in my right breast in April 2013. I remember not sleeping, thinking that something in my small 20-year-old body could kill me. This made me realize I had to be strong, just like my mom.
I was in college at the time, so my parents came up. I needed to have a breast MRI of the lump. After the MRI, I had a biopsy. Thankfully, the lump came back as a fibroadenoma, a benign breast tumor.
After that experience, I continued to raise money for cancer research and volunteer for events. I thought we had finally put all the ‘bad’ from this disease behind us.
My Grandmother’s Diagnosis
In 2019, my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer. As much as we wanted to be upset and worried, we didn’t allow ourselves. Our family fought this disease once and we would do it again. From all the knowledge we have through my mom’s experience and the experiences of others, I have no doubt my grandmother will beat her cancer.
My Second Breast Cancer Scare
In February 2022, I was face to face with the reality that I too might be chasing a cancer diagnosis. When I felt a lump in my breast, my doctor did an ultrasound, followed by a guided MRI and biopsy of a spot in my right breast. Luckily, the mass was benign.
Due to my family history, I had genetic tests and the results show I do not have a BRCA inherited gene mutation. Based on my family history, my doctor determined I have a 35% risk of getting breast cancer. I go for screenings every six months to monitor my breasts. Filled with uncertainty and emotional ups and downs, I have to hold onto the following sentiment: “Have hope. Hope, faith and positivity are very powerful tools to help you overcome what you’ve been faced with.”
Know What’s Normal
It’s so important to know your body and what’s normal for you. 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. However, not once did I think my mother and grandmother would be among them.
We know that early detection is key to saving lives. With proper knowledge and awareness, we can decrease the number of women who lose their lives to breast cancer. My mother and grandmother fought and won their battles with breast cancer but there are still so many people undergoing breast 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.
