a story of survival

by Dave Harney

Betsy Simpson of Livonia is a breast cancer survivor. Since her diagnosis at age 41 in September, 2005 she has been to hell and back, but her tenacity, sense of humor, courage, and active participation in treatment, among other things, have seen her through.

It is still emotionally difficult for Betsy to discuss her ordeal. But she’s come a long way. Initially, she says, it was like being hit by a truck, and that she was “just numb” for quite a while. Then, with help and support from family, friends, and professionals she began to gain perspective and hope.

Her original diagnosis was at the Elizabeth Wende Breast Clinic in Brighton. She had found a lump during a self exam so was prescribed a mammogram. She says the mammogram didn’t show anything but that, since there was lump, other tests were recommended. After reviewing the ultrasound and core biopsy, Dr. Patricia Somerville of the Clinic diagnosed Betsy with an invasive ductal carcinoma. Further examination, including a breast MRI by the clinic’s state-of-the-art scanner, and a lymph node biopsy with Dr. Wende Logan-Young, showed the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes.

Betsy’s treatment included a full range of therapies, starting with chemotherapy. The initial round at Highland Hospital did reduce the tumors significantly, and Betsy was hopeful. But her surgeon, Dr. Tulsi Dass, still felt a lump, so more tests were needed to diagnose what this first round of therapy had accomplished. Again, advanced imaging techniques were needed, so she returned to the Wende Breast Clinic for another breast MRI and a needle biopsy. These tests determined that the cancer was still present and a mastectomy was indicated.

Seven months after the original diagnosis, Betsy was told she would have to undergo a mastectomy. Having learned from her earlier experiences, she knew where to turn for help, counsel, and understanding. She credits her husband, Dave, and her family for being especially supportive. She also has strong feelings for the staff at the Wende Clinic, especially Dr. Somerville, who she says was especially caring. The Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester was also an extremely helpful group because she was able to talk with people who had experienced breast cancer and gone through the same process she was enduring.

Today, 2 years after the surgery, Betsy believes she is cancer-free. From her experience, she suggests others in a similar situation be strong advocates for themselves. “Learn as much as you can about your disease to be able to talk knowledgeably with medical professionals,“ she says. She also recommends patients ask for additional tests or treatments if they are not offered. She credits the ones she had with being instrumental in ensuring a correct diagnosis and believes the treatments she underwent were successful because of thorough and accurate testing. Finally she suggests that keeping a positive mental attitude and sense of humor are very important parts of a successful outcome.