When Beth initially developed a rash on her breast, she thought she’d developed an allergic reaction to either her laundry soap or body lotion. But then she developed bruising on her breast. She reached out to her gynecologist.

After a series of tests, in December 2015, Beth learned she had stage 4 inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). “It was New Year’s Even when I got the news,” she said. “I had no idea what IBC was.”

Stage 4 breast cancer is metastatic breast cancer, for which there is currently no cure. Over the years, Beth’s treatment has included a bilateral mastectomy, a hysterectomy and radiation therapy. She’s currently on chemotherapy and immunotherapy and has regular scans.

“When I was first diagnosed with IBC, I was told I had three months to live,” Beth recalled. “But that was 11 years ago.” Her goal is to see her niece, who is in sixth grade, and her nephew, who is in fourth grade, graduate. “I’m still going strong.”

Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their healthcare provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.