More than treatment: the team behind my cancer journey

To the Mary Washington Healthcare cancer care team,

As I reflect on my breast cancer journey, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the care team who walked beside me through one of the most challenging experiences of my life. Your expertise, compassion, and encouragement supported me through every stage of treatment and recovery.

I had always prioritized my health through regular screenings, exercise, and healthy habits. After years of benign results and monitoring for breast density, a mammogram in December 2023 and a subsequent biopsy revealed stage 3A invasive ductal carcinoma. I was shocked and overwhelmed. Like many patients, I never imagined I would face a diagnosis like this.

Fortunately, my cancer was treatable and from the moment treatment began, I was surrounded by compassionate professionals who provided not only expert medical care, but also encouragement, reassurance, and hope. My treatment options included a mastectomy or a neoadjuvant approach that included a lumpectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. I chose a lumpectomy to preserve my breast. Balancing work, my social life, and medical appointments required significant adjustments.

Chemotherapy was the most challenging part of the treatment. I experienced nausea and fatigue, but a Paxman cooling cap helped me preserve my hair. Radiation therapy was less invasive. As I underwent surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and rehabilitation, you helped me navigate each step with confidence. I remained focused on recovery and leaned on my faith, family, friends, and healthcare providers for strength.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to oncologist Dr. Maithreyi Sarma, oncology surgeon Dr. Rod Flynn, oncology nurse navigator Ashley Sisson, Dr. Rachel Coggins, Dr. Kurian Thott, the Stafford Radiation Oncology team, occupational therapist Emily Garalde, cardiologist Dr. Aaron Schatz, the Imaging Center for Women and the outpatient infusion team. Each of you played a vital role in my care and I am deeply grateful for your expertise and support.

Following surgery, I experienced limited mobility in my arm, but with the help of rehabilitation therapy, I was able to regain my strength and return to the activities I enjoy. Today, I am grateful to be in remission and celebrating a new chapter in life. Ringing the bell on Jan. 2, 2026, was a moment I will always treasure as it marked the completion of my treatment, but it also represented something much greater: hope, healing, and a second chance.

This journey taught me to keep my faith, practice self-care and not “sweat the small stuff.” Life is precious. Although I did not join a formal support group, I met many survivors during my visits, and sharing our stories became a valuable source of comfort. Screening can feel intimidating, but it is vital. Early detection saves lives.

To anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis, know that you are not alone. Trust your care team, lean on your support system, stay hopeful, and keep moving forward one day at a time. Participating in advocacy can also be deeply rewarding.

While cancer was not a path I would have chosen, I am profoundly grateful for the care I received along the way. Thank you for the compassion, professionalism, and encouragement you showed me throughout my treatment and recovery. Your work changes lives and I am living proof of that every day.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Tammi T. Allen