Tammy is a wife, mother, cancer survivor and a radiation oncology nurse. She has spent the past 11 years since her cancer diagnosis advocating, educating and supporting fellow cancer patients.
In a truly inspiring real life story, Tammy left her career in finance to go back to school and become an oncology nurse so that she could help other patients like her. Tammy is proof that all things are possible, and we are proud to include her as member of the OneVillage Medical Review Board!
What was your cancer diagnosis and how was it discovered?
I was diagnosed with Stage 2a triple negative metaplastic carcinoma breast cancer at the age of 35. I had just given birth to my third child. About a week later I noticed a lump during a self breast exam. I figured it was just a clogged milk duct so I waited until my 6 week check up to tell my doctor. Within days of that doctors visit, I had an ultra sound, biopsy and lumpectomy. I then had 6 months of chemotherapy and 7 weeks of radiation. I'm now an 11 year breast cancer survivor.
What is the biggest piece of advice you have for newly diagnosed patients?
Be your own advocate! Work with your doctors to make the best choices for you. Don't ever feel like you shouldn't ask a question if you don't understand something or want to know the reason for a decision being made about your treatment. Make knowing all that you can about your diagnosis your business, because being your own advocate is the best way to get the right care in our hard to navigate medical system.
What is the most important thing you learned from your cancer experience?
Allow people to help and be easy on yourself.
What was the most difficult aspect of organizing your care/community?
The most difficult aspect of organizing care is having a place for people that want to help to coordinate care. I found it incredibly difficult to share my needs with people in my community who wanted to help, because first of all I didn't know what I needed and secondly I didn't know how to share it without feeling like I was being overly forward. The OneVillage wishlist concept is perfect for that.
What are three words you would use to describe your cancer experience?
grateful, challenging, changing
Are there products, services, experiences or physicians that you couldn't be without?
During my cancer experience, I could not have survived without the women I connected who were also dealing with breast cancer. It really helps to have others who understand what you are going through. You will get through this, focus on finding support in your community.
Interested in connecting with Tammy?
Learn more about her story on her Instagram page, @tkestler.
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