For Kim Stuebgen, staying positive and leaning on her community helped her navigate her breast cancer journey. Through moments of uncertainty, she found strength in the support of those around her. This is her story in her own words.
Receiving the Diagnosis
I was driving to my family’s camp when I received the life-changing call: I had breast cancer.
It was Memorial Day weekend, and my family and friends were gathering for a weekend of fun. I headed up a day early to open the camp for the season, never expecting to receive a call that would change the direction of the weekend.
Just two months earlier, I had my annual mammogram. My doctor recommended a follow-up mammogram and ultrasound. There was “something” showing up on the scans, and clearer pictures were needed. This was totally normal; I have dense breasts, and I had been down this road in the past.
However, this time was different. During the ultrasound, my doctor performed a biopsy. As I lay there, I couldn’t shake the thought, “Is this the beginning of my breast cancer journey?” Something inside me knew, and I braced myself for the results.
I was surprised when the hospital called just minutes after I left for the weekend. Expecting a routine check-in, I answered. Instead, the nurse told me my results were back early – I had breast cancer.
Facing the Challenges of a Breast Cancer Journey
The rest of the drive was a blur of phone calls to my friends and family. A co-worker who lived nearby came and met me at camp so I wouldn’t be alone.
We talked and laughed for hours. I truly felt like she saved me that night. I still hadn’t cried, and I think that if I had been by myself, I would have fallen apart.
Since my tumor was small and confined to my right breast, my treatment plan initially consisted of a lumpectomy. However, a breast MRI revealed a larger tumor and concerning cysts in my left breast. The day before my scheduled lumpectomy, my treatment plan changed. I needed a double mastectomy.
My surgery was on July 31, 2023, and they were able to complete my breast reconstruction at the same time. Since my cancer was hormone receptor-positive, my doctor ordered an Oncotype DX test to determine my risk of recurrence and whether or not I needed to add chemotherapy to my treatment plan. For the next month, I mentally prepared myself for the next step in my breast cancer journey – waiting for the test results.
Support from Family and Friends
Throughout my breast cancer journey, I remained positive. I needed to be strong for my husband and kids. One of my biggest concerns was something simple: who would make dinner?
I’m the oldest of five kids and 30 cousins. As a caregiver, I struggled with the idea of needing help. But while I was worrying about dinner, the doorbell rang.
A friend was dropping off dinner for the night. It continued like that for a month. Every day, there was food delivered to the house, and it was like a weight was lifted off my shoulders.
When my Oncotype DX test results arrived, I was relieved to learn my recurrence risk was extremely low. I didn’t need chemotherapy. However, I needed a hysterectomy and was prescribed an aromatase inhibitor as part of my ongoing treatment.
Giving Back After Breast Cancer
A year after my diagnosis, my husband, Jason, and daughter, Harley, surprised me by hosting a breast cancer fundraiser to give back to the community that supported me.
The event raised more than $11,000 for Susan G. Komen, and it left me speechless. Once again, our little community came together in a big way.
Throughout this experience, I’ve met incredible women experiencing breast cancer. We have formed a sisterhood, leaning on each other through the ups and downs. I am so blessed to know these women.
My breast cancer journey has changed my perspective on life. I now know I can overcome whatever comes my way. I am stronger, happier and am truly living my best life.
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.
