Breast Cancer Survivor’s Story Of Hope – Josephine Roach Shares Her Experience

Breast cancer is a malignant disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast tissue. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide and can also affect men. The disease typically begins in the milk ducts or lobules of the breast and may form a lump or mass that can be felt during a physical exam or seen on imaging tests like mammograms.

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Early detection through regular screening and awareness campaigns is crucial for better prognosis and treatment options. Treatment for breast cancer often involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy, tailored to the specific type and stage of cancer, to remove or control the cancer cells and prevent their spread to other parts of the body.

See the full podcast interview with Josephine Roach

5 things to know about Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening disease that affects both men and women. Here are five essential things to know about breast cancer:

Risk Factors:

  • Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over 50.
  • Gender: While breast cancer is much more common in women, men can also develop it.
  • Family History: A family history of breast cancer, especially in close relatives like a mother or sister, can increase your risk.
  • BRCA Mutations: Certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can significantly elevate the risk of breast cancer.
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of certain hormone therapies, especially estrogen and progesterone, may increase the risk in postmenopausal women.

Early Detection:

  • Regular Screening: Mammograms and breast self-exams are essential for early detection. Mammograms can detect tumors before they are noticeable by touch.
  • Signs and Symptoms: Be aware of common signs such as a lump in the breast, changes in breast shape or size, nipple discharge, or skin changes like redness or dimpling.
  • Clinical Exams: Regular clinical breast exams by a healthcare provider are recommended.

Stages and Types:

  • Breast cancer is divided into stages (0 to IV) based on the size of the tumor and whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
  • There are different types of breast cancer, including ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), and more. Each type may require different treatment approaches.

Treatment Options:

  • Treatment depends on the stage, type, and individual factors. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
  • Personalized Treatment: Advances in genetics and personalized medicine allow for tailored treatments based on the specific characteristics of the tumor.

Survivorship and Support:

  • Many people survive breast cancer, especially when it is detected and treated early.
  • After treatment, individuals may experience physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. Support groups, counseling, and survivorship care plans can help patients navigate these challenges.
  • Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor for any potential recurrence or late effects of treatment.

Breast cancer awareness, early detection, and advances in treatment have improved survival rates. It’s crucial to stay informed, undergo regular screenings, and consult with healthcare professionals for guidance on risk assessment and prevention strategies.

About the guest – Josephine Roach

Josephine Roach is an advocate and leader in the breast cancer community. She serves as Chairperson of the Detroit Komen Leadership Council and is a member of the Komen Detroit Race for the Cure Planning Committee.

She is an advocate for the Karmanos Cancer Advocacy Program (KCAP) and is the founder of the Facebook breast cancer support group Where HOPE Begins. Breast cancer advocacy is her passion, focusing on education and awareness. She has received numerous awards for her service in the breast cancer community. 

Josephine is a published author. Her book, “Josephine’s Journey, A Breast Cancer Survivor’s Story of Hope”, was released in August 2022. She shares excerpts from her cancer journal. Learn about the emotions she goes through and the people she encounters along the way as she takes you along with her from diagnosis to survivorship. 

Josephine received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Wayne State University in Detroit and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Detroit Mercy. She resides in Southeast Michigan, USA, with her husband, Jim, where they share a passion for travel, bird watching, and classic cars.

Learn More About Obehi Podcast

Obehi Podcast brings you leaders and experts from different industries to share their experiences, relating to the African diaspora, business, and storytelling. Listen to Obehi Podcast across different platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, and much more.

Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Series for Small Businesses.

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