My Breast Cancer Journey
by Loria Reese, patient, Prisma Health Breast Center in the Midlands
In 2021, this is the day that I was changed forever. I went for an MRI, and during this visit I was informed by my doctor that he wanted to do a biopsy of my right breast. After the biopsy was completed, it was then sent to a pathologist in order to get the results. Once I received the results, I was informed that it was cancer. I knew a long journey was ahead after I received this information.
On July 30, the journey began with surgery on my right breast. After having the procedure, my doctor informed me that the cancer was in the duct of my right breast and hadn’t spread which was indeed a blessing from only God himself. My next step was to visit an oncologist to discuss treatment options. I continued to pray and trust God. At this point, I was willing to do whatever it took to live. With that in mind, I was nervous but also optimistic to see what was next to come in my journey.
After seeing the oncologist, it was determined that radiation/treatment was not needed, since the cancer was detected at an early stage. I am truly grateful and thankful to God. I believe that having faith the size of a mustard seed is a true sentiment. My journey emphasized that it is significantly important to be sure to go to the doctor for annual check ups. Early detection is key. I’m so thankful for my supportive family and friends who were by my side since day one. I’m also grateful to the doctors who took me in their care and supported me along the way. Lastly, I’m thankful to God above who has granted me another chance.
It’s a great honor to be able to share my journey. I pray it will inspire and help someone else along the way. Being diagnosed with a sickness is scary and at times can be devastating; however, keep hope alive and never give up. Always remember with God all things are possible. You too can endure and triumph through your journey.
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The 32nd Walk for Life and Famously Hot Pink Half Marathon + 5K, benefiting Prisma Health Breast Center in the Midlands, will be celebrated in person on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022, at Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., in Columbia. Virtual registration options also are available for those who would like to walk or run in their own communities in Oct.
Registration is now open at WalkForLifeColumbia.org.
Walk for Life, presented by Dominion Energy, and Famously Hot Pink Half Marathon + 5K are Prisma Health Midlands Foundation signature fundraising events benefiting Prisma Health Breast Center in Columbia, S.C. Walk for Life began in 1991 when former First Lady of Columbia, Beth Coble, founded the event, in collaboration with the former Baptist Medical Center team, now part of Prisma Health in the Midlands. For 32 years, the event has educated women and men about the importance of early detection and has raised more than $11.3 million to fund the latest in digital mammography technology and enhance programs and services for breast cancer patients and their families. Proceeds from the 2022 event will help fund the latest tool in breast biopsy technology, resulting in less procedure and breast compression time for patients. Proceeds also will continue to fund post-mastectomy camisoles, post-surgery breast bears and support materials for patients and families.