Mollie Wadsworth of Whitesboro never thought that at age 33, and with no family history, that breast cancer was something she needed to be worried about. 

When were you diagnosed, what age and what stage?

In November of 2019, at the age of 33, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer and to say those words aren’t absolutely terrifying would be a lie. With no family history of breast cancer, this was quite a shock. How was I going to fight cancer as a mom, wife, and daughter with a full-time job? I was fortunate to not only catch it early but also to receive effective treatment, and I am now almost two years cancer-free. I’m thankful for supportive family and friends, amazing nurses and doctors, and an early diagnosis. Having so many people who have gone through similar things brings me comfort and support.

How was the cancer initially detected?

As I was only 33 years old, I regularly performed self-breast exams, and found a lump on my left side. I then visited my OB/GYN, who also did an exam. I was then referred to have a mammogram, a sonogram, and a biopsy. After the cancer was detected, I met with my surgeon and oncologist to plan a course of action.

What was your treatment process?

I began with blood work, MRIs, CT scans, PET scans, and a port placement for infusions. Luckily, the cancer had not spread past my breast and lymph nodes. Very soon after, we began dose-dense chemotherapy for eight rounds. Then, I had a lumpectomy and axillary nodal dissection surgeries, followed by physical therapy to prevent lymphedema. Next, I started three rounds of oral chemotherapy followed by six weeks of daily radiation treatments.

Finally, I completed the final three rounds of oral chemotherapy medication. Follow up testing and regular mammograms were performed afterwards, and as of November 2020, I was declared cancer-free! Being a younger patient, my doctors and I chose an intensive treatment plan to combat the invasive and aggressive disease. Although there were days that I did not feel my best, I knew that going through some tough days would ultimately help me to heal. 

What message would you like to provide to others in the community?

If something doesn’t feel right, go get it checked out. If I had waited until I was scheduled for a mammogram at 40 years old, that would have been seven years after I initially felt my lump. No one ever wants to hear “you have cancer,” but finding it, treating it, and working toward recovery are far better options than ignoring symptoms.

From my experience, many people who have gone through similar situations are often willing to share their story, offer advice, or just be a sounding board for the bad days, myself included. There are numerous resources that can help during the difficult times, and I encourage anyone who needs them to utilize them.  

Are you a breast cancer survivor, or do you know someone who is? As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Daily Sentinel is saluting survivors in this daily feature throughout October. To be featured, email Pam Sperbeck at PSperbeck@RNYmedia.