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πŸ“’I talkπŸŽ™οΈwith Dr Pamela Hayes, M.D. Medical Oncologist at Texas Oncology in Dallas, TX. She specializes in Hematology and Medical Oncology! πŸ‘πŸ· πŸŽ‡ πŸŽ‰ ✨ πŸ‘πŸ₯‚Β  😁

πŸ’¬ "It's your journey. Don't compare it to anyone else." - Dr. Pamela Hayes

This summer, I was diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer (DCIS)β€”a mild case, but still life-changing. I sat down with my oncologist, Dr. Pamela Hayes, to share my experience and spread awareness about early detection, treatment, and recovery. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

Watch on YouTube! https://youtu.be/R9HIy93UP-0

πŸ”¬ Early Detection & Diagnosis

βœ”οΈ Mammograms matter! Many cases are caught early through routine screening.
βœ”οΈ Dense breast tissue = more screening (I had it & was called back for more tests).
βœ”οΈ DCIS is "stage zero" cancer, meaning the cells are abnormal but haven't spread.

πŸ’¬ "Think of it like a tiger in a cage. Given enough time, it can break out." - Dr. Hayes on DCIS

πŸ₯ Treatment Journey

πŸ“Œ Biopsy & Lumpectomy: Surgery removed abnormal cells, but margins were closeβ€”so I had a second procedure.
πŸ“Œ Radiation: Based on my risk score, radiation was recommended to prevent recurrence. I had 21 treatments. And I Rang the Bell!
πŸ“Œ Hormone Therapy: I’m on low-dose tamoxifen for 5 years to reduce future risk.

πŸ’¬ "Our goal is to make sure this NEVER comes back." - Dr. Hayes

🧬 What Increases Breast Cancer Risk?

πŸ”Έ Family history & genetics (BRCA gene mutations)
πŸ”Έ Early puberty or late menopause
πŸ”Έ Dense breast tissue (like mine!)
πŸ”Έ Obesity & lack of exercise
πŸ”Έ Alcohol consumption (moderation is key!)

πŸ’¬ "Alcohol isn't the biggest risk factor, but excess can increase estrogen levels, which fuel some breast cancers." - Dr. Hayes

πŸ’ͺ Life After Treatment

🌿 Exercise helps! I’m walking 2-3 miles/day & doing weight training.
🍎 Balanced diet > extreme diets. No need to cut out everything!
🩺 Regular screenings & check-ups are a must.

πŸ’¬ "Tiny changes make a big impact." - Dr. Hayes

πŸ’– Final Thoughts
Breast cancer is emotionally and physically overwhelming, but having a strong support system, great doctors, and the right mindset makes all the difference. If you're going through this or know someone who is, you're not alone.

πŸ’¬ "Your body is constantly working to protect youβ€”trust it, take care of it, and stay proactive."

πŸŽ‰ #GetYourBoobsSqueezed πŸŽ‰

πŸ‘€ PSA, ladies! It’s time for your annual mammogramβ€”because early detection saves lives!

πŸ’– Mammos after 40 = Self-care & peace of mind!
πŸ’– Takes just 20 minutes! (Faster than your Starbucks run β˜•)
πŸ’– Smash those boobs, not your chances!

πŸ‘‰ No excusesβ€”schedule your mammogram to

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