How We Take a Stand

Q&A with Dorothy Dolan, RN

For breast cancer awareness month, we’re talking to members of the Vori Health team who have battled this disease about the personal choices that power their fight. Whether you are a health care provider or a patient, stories of hope remain a gold-standard treatment. Below we share the story of Dorothy Dolan, RN, a registered nurse and certified health coach at Vori Health.

When were you diagnosed with breast cancer?

Five years ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 3A invasive lobular breast cancer, which can be the trickiest breast cancer to find because it doesn’t always show during a mammogram or ultrasound.

How did you find out?

I had a history of fibrocystic breasts and was carefully followed by my primary care doctor. I got yearly mammograms and ultrasounds from the age of 40. At the age of 53, my gynecologist noticed my lumpy left breast (which often felt that way prior to menstruation — especially if I had caffeine — but usually felt better after my period). Another mammogram and ultrasound was ordered, but I was once again cleared. I was recommended to follow up with a surgeon, who said lumpy breasts were normal for someone going through perimenopause. I sought out a second opinion from another breast surgeon who initially did not see anything with her in-office ultrasound, but sent me for another repeat mammogram and ultrasound. The mammogram showed nothing, but an ultrasound found a two centimeter tumor. It was biopsied and the diagnosis was invasive lobular breast cancer.

What was your treatment like?

I was scheduled for surgery, and the tumor turned out to be much bigger after it was removed — seven centimeters. Hearing all of this news was terrifying, but I am a fighter. With great support from friends and family, I committed to doing all I could to beat this. Months of chemo, radiation, surgeries, and years of hormone-lowering medication later, I am happy to say that I am cancer-free and I plan on staying that way with daily exercise and by eating foods that are packed with nutrients. As my breast surgeon commented: ‘Can’t wait to see you in 30 years!’

Words of advice?

Please prioritize your care. It’s ok to put yourself first. Go with your gut; don’t stop because one doctor tells you: ‘It’s nothing.’ Get mammograms because they can catch something early and they do save lives. If you have fibrocystic breasts — be extra vigilant. Stay physically active and eat a healthy diet. As we get older, we tend to have aches and pains but don’t let that stop you from moving.

Favorite foods to fight back?

This fully-loaded Vegetable Soup — it incorporates so many cancer-fighting foods in one dish. It’s great for fall, easy to throw together, and you can make it your own by adding chicken for more protein, or even kale. It’s filling, too, and easy to freeze and pull out for a quick meal.

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