We are thrilled to bring you this personal account of Marilyn’s breast cancer battle during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This post is sponsored by HCA Midwest Health and is written by patient Marilyn Scherer.
I do not look like a two-time breast cancer survivor going through my final round of chemotherapy at the Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at Menorah Medical Center, part of HCA Midwest Health. I have a full head of long thick hair and today, I am scheduled to complete my sixth and final round of chemo with my husband, Chris, by my side.
Breast cancer does not run in my family even though I have battled this disease twice now. My first diagnosis was in the summer of 2016. That first diagnosis resulted in a lumpectomy procedure on my left breast and 16 rounds of chemotherapy. The second diagnosis came in this past June after a visit with my primary care physician. I was there for a routine yearly exam and during my breast exam a very small lump was found on my right breast.
Upbeat attitude
To know me, is like knowing one of the most upbeat, can-do, never-say-quit people around. I have been told that I have contagious energy and a smile that makes you feel great even if you’re only around me for a short time. During my treatment, many of my work colleagues didn’t know I was battling the disease. It is not because I didn’t share my diagnosis, but because I didn’t look sick, but I also had a full head of hair.
Pioneering cancer treatments in Kansas City
In 2016, I was one of the first patients in the Kansas City area into use a scalp cooling technology that is only offered at Menorah Medical Center. The technology, known as DigniCap, cools the scalp for patients during chemotherapy sessions.
Treating solid tumor cancer is the top priority for medical oncologists and chemotherapy infusions are typically the best way to do it. However, some chemotherapy drugs can damage hair cells. Hair loss has long been considered an inevitable part of chemotherapy, and one of the most emotionally devastating aspects of cancer treatment. For many patients, chemotherapy-induced hair loss is more than a matter of vanity. It can become a continual, unwelcome reminder of the cancer and treatment, one that can negatively affect self-image, confidence, and sense of well-being. Concern about hair loss can influence attitude and behavior in ways that may even interfere with compliance with treatment at a time when patients can least afford it. This is where DigniCap comes in to help patients dealing with cancer and its side effects. Cooling of the scalp is a proven approach to reduce chemo-induced hair loss.
How it works
The scalp cooling system consists of a snug-fitting silicone cap connected to a cooling and control unit, which circulates coolant through the channels in the cap. Sensors in the cap monitor temperature on the scalp allowing the system to automatically regulate cooling temperature during a treatment session. To make the process more comfortable, the cooling cap is at room temperature when placed on the head and the treatment temperature is achieved over a short time period and remains around or above 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Reducing the patient’s scalp temperature during chemo results in diminished blood flow to the scalp area so less chemo reaches the hair cells. Additionally, the cellular metabolism with the hair cell is slowed. Hair cells, are therefore not exposed to the full dose of chemotherapy and have a better chance to survive the chemo treatment.
Advocate and Mentor
During my treatment sessions, I feel like it’s my duty to coach and support other patients who are going through chemo and have elected to use the scalp cooling technology.
Many patients think they will not be able to endure the cold temperatures on their scalp and that it is not worth it. However, I use this as an opportunity to help them understand the steps and process. I’m here to let my fellow survivors understand that it works. But it also helps you feel like you don’t have cancer and that you can still have a great looking head of hair while you’re fighting your cancer.
I also want to use this opportunity to educate women about the importance of mammogram screenings. My concern is that more and more women are being diagnosed with breast cancer at earlier ages. I was in my mid-to-late 50’s when I found out I had breast cancer. However, there are many women in their 30’s and 40’s who are being diagnosed now. I strongly encourage women to know their normal, understand your body, do self-exams and not think that you’re not at risk because you don’t have a family history.
I may have breast cancer for a second time, but breast cancer does NOT have me or my hair.
HCA Midwest Health offers offer eight screening locations and seven cancer centers, including four nationally accredited Breast Centers – so you never have to travel far to take care of your pair. Take a free, online breast cancer risk assessment and make a mammogram appointment today at hcamidwest.com/breast.
