In 2020, just as everyone was trying to come to terms with the COVID-19 pandemic, Karri Banovitz learned she had breast cancer. This is her story in her own words.
Finding a Lump
In April, I felt a lump in my breast. I was already scheduled to have my mammogram, so I didn’t think anything of it and would let them check it when I went. When I woke up the next day, I no longer felt it. I thought it was weird but assumed it was because I was about to have my menstrual cycle.
Mammogram Cancelled
Then, because of the pandemic, the doctor’s office called me to cancel my mammogram because they didn’t want anyone in the hospital that did not need to be there, which was understandable.
The Lump Returns
Then in June, just before my birthday, the lump came back and this time it was bigger. I called the doctor and told her about the lump. She scheduled an appointment to get a diagnostic mammogram done.
A Mammogram, Breast Ultrasound and Biopsy
Then days after my birthday, I had the diagnostic mammogram. Everything seemed normal, until it wasn’t. They took me in for a and then immediately did a biopsy. No leaving and coming back, they did the biopsy right then and there. The doctor said they’d call as soon as they had the results.
A Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Two days after my biopsy, the doctor called and gave me the news. I was diagnosed with grade 3a invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and it had spread to my lymph nodes. All of a sudden, I had appointments and video calls scheduled and was overloaded with information.
Breast Cancer Treatment
Chemo lasted from August 2020-February 2021. The Red Devil chemo is no joke. I found it wasn’t too bad if I drank lots of ice-cold water and walked around with my IV pole. I found the same thing with Taxol. It was important for me to get up and move. I walked around, drank water, peed, repeat. I think this helped keep me from getting nauseous.
In March 2021, I had a lumpectomy as well as seven lymph nodes removed. Then I had 29 rounds of radiation to help keep this beast away. Because I was diagnosed with HR-positive, HER 2-negative breast cancer, my cancer was feeding on estrogen. So I did monthly Lupron shots to suppress my ovaries and keep my hormones in check.
Another Breast Cancer Diagnosis
In October 2022, I felt nervous going into my mammogram. It turns out I had calcifications, and they needed to do a different mammogram/biopsy to get the micro samples. It turned out that I had a different type of breast cancer called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
Continuing Treatment
I ended up having a double mastectomy. Because of the radiation I previously had, I was not a candidate for reconstruction with implants. My only other option was DIEP flap surgery. So, in February 2023, I had both surgeries. Once I was healed, it was back to chemo, this time only four infusions and a scheduled ovary removal.
Today, I am a breast cancer survivor. I’m stronger than I could ever know.
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 health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.
