Third Time's a Charm

My name is Shawn and my journey began in 2007; I was only 31. 10 days before my 32nd birthday, I was diagnosed Stage 4 ER+/PR+ HER2- invasive ductal carcinoma. Surgery 3 weeks later, surgery again to remove lymph nodes was about 4 weeks later, then 6 rounds of the “red devil” and 6 weeks daily radiation. My disease was now in remission. The year prior, I gave birth.

Facing recurrence

Fast forward to 2022, almost 15 years to the day, I received news that the disease reared its ugly head again. I had surgery and did 2 rounds of chemo. Serious side effects resulted in stopping treatment. No radiation was discussed. My Dr. moved on and her practice was not covered under my insurance; I was lost to follow-up, meaning I had none!

Metastasis and healthcare delays

Then Nov 2025, I went to the ER for a cough that just wouldn’t go away and was getting worse. 2 days before Thanksgiving, it was explained to me that they found metastatic disease in my bones and my lungs. That was the beginning of my end.

It was first thought that I had Valley Fever, which forced delay of cancer treatment for 4 months. While I was treated for Valley Fever, they later found I did not have it after all. I began taking Kisqali in May 2026. In June, I was forced to medically resign. Because of this, my insurance went to Medicaid, who denied my medication refill saying to bill my primary insurance, which was no longer active. As of today, I am 5 weeks without my meds.

Systemic frustration and hope for the future

Seems they aren’t interested in my care, the Drs. and the insurance providers, which makes me not interested. I’m tired of calling these people day after day, week after week. Originally, I was told I have 2 years, maybe a little more. That was 8 months ago. I wonder with all the delays I’ve encountered, is it still 2 years? Do I really care anymore? Not so much!

I wonder if I’m the only one? It feels like I am!

I just want to live long enough for my granddaughter to reach an age that will ensure she remembers me.