January 29, 2025.
My journey ultimately began December 18th, 2024 when I went in for my routine six-month mammogram and ultrasound for my left breast. For the past three years, this has been standard practice due to my extremely dense breast tissue and recurring breast cysts. A few months before my scheduled diagnostic appointment, I noticed a palpable lump in the upper part of my left breast.
I had both the mammogram and ultrasound, and the results showed two suspicious areas in my left breast. As a result, I was advised to undergo biopsies.
Then, on Thursday, January 23rd, I followed up with my gynecologist regarding the findings from an unrelated abdominal CT scan. The scan revealed an enlarged uterus and a 10 cm mass, which the doctor suspects is a uterine fibroid. The fibroid is pressing against my bladder, and my uterus is so enlarged that my ovaries weren’t visible during the pelvic ultrasound. Given these findings, my gynecologist referred me to a gynecologic oncologist at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago for a consultation, which is scheduled for Friday, February 7th.
Although this uterine issue is unrelated to my breast concerns, it is another health matter I’m navigating at the moment
On January 24th, I underwent two core needle biopsies of my left breast at Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington. Then came the agonizing wait for the results.
On January 27th, I received a call from the breast specialist at Good Shepherd Hospital. He informed me that the biopsy results had come back positive for cancer and that he wanted to meet with me and Dan the following day at 1:00 pm.
Diagnosis Day – Tuesday, January 28th
Meeting Dr. Rosen, the breast surgeon, was a bit of a relief. He was incredibly kind and thorough in explaining my diagnosis: triple-negative breast cancer. While it was a lot to process, he reassured us that it is treatable. The next steps would involve chemotherapy, followed by potential surgery — a treatment plan known as neoadjuvant therapy.
Dr. Rosen provided us with a checklist of what to do next, including when to reach out to him for specific updates. He also drew blood to test for the BRCA mutation, among other tests. The results will take a few weeks to come back. I’ll follow up with him in April.
This first week in February will be full of more appointments: MRI, Medical Oncologist, Consultation with Rush
I’m hopeful that by the end of this week, we’ll have more clarity, and I promise to keep everyone updated along the way.
One day at a time, one step at a time—All things happen in God’s time.
🩷 Marla
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So many hugs and prayers.
Marla please let me know if we can help in any way. Hugs and prayers 🙏
You are in great hands with Dr. Rosen and his team! I’m here for you if you need anything! 🩷
I’m so sorry, Marla. Will pray for you during this journey. Keep faith in God’s plan for you. Faith over fear! You are strong and will get through this!
Hugs ❤️
We will beat this together!
Marla, this blog is a great idea!
I’m so sorry you are dealing with these scary health issues. I pray you get the best care possible. I know that Stacey had Dr. Rosen as her doctor and so did another friend of mine.
Sending love and hugs 🤗🥰
I’m saddened to hear this Marla. I know you will beat this!! Your positive energy and family will carry you through. I will be constantly rallying for you through this journey .🩷
Sending prayers your way. Definitely faith over fear. Stay strong!
As your Mother I have been by your side when God blessed me with a ity bity baby. You fought the fight then and taught me what strength is. As we all navigate through your new journey know that I will be there know matter what. You are one of the strongest people and we will get through this journey with you with love, strength, and our faith in God for he is the healer of all illnesses that are given to us. I love you so very much 💓 You've got this.
I am praying for you and sending hugs! Deep breaths, God's got you!!
❤️❤️❤️