Imagine being just eight years old and seeing your mother disfigured from a Halstead radical mastectomy due to breast cancer because reconstruction wasn't an option back then. That was Deb Hackenberry’s first introduction to the harsh reality of breast cancer. Later in life, Deb would face her own diagnosis—very early-stage invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)—largely due to her family history. But it wasn’t just her family history. Environmental factors such as living near factories in New York and being close to the World Trade Center during 9/11 also potentially played a role in her diagnosis.

Motivated by her passion for research and compassion for others, Deb dedicated 14 years to volunteering at SHARE Cancer Support, leading a support group for DCIS patients, and assisting callers on the breast cancer patient support line. She also shares insights into where she is now on her advocacy journey.

We are a podcast produced by SHARE Cancer Support. Be sure to check out the SHARE Website for any info or resources you may need.

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When a family member is diagnosed with breast cancer, it can impact the whole family. Our guest, Barbara Spears (Barb), understands this well. Her diagnosis of invasive ductal breast cancer (IDC) changed the course of her daughter Chrissy's career from pharmacy school to becoming a genetic counselor. Barb shares how her diagnosis took her by surprise and how the support of her husband Bill and daughter helped her through the surgeries and treatments. We also discuss the importance of participating in breast cancer research, having a trustworthy medical team, and how the experience strengthened her bond with her daughter.

You may recall her daughter Chrissy Spears, who was also a guest on our show this season. You can listen to her episode from earlier this year titled "Her Mom’s Breast Cancer Diagnosis Changed Trajectory of Her Career" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Buzzsprout, or any other podcast platform of your choice.

We are a podcast produced by SHARE Cancer Support. Be sure to check out the SHARE Website for any info or resources you may need.

Thanks for listening!

We all have some shared breast cancer experiences, but everybody’s walk is different. Invasive ductal carcinoma (ILC) survivor Dr. Michele D. Clark, LMSW, has a breast cancer experience with so many unexpected twists and turns that it will have you on the edge of your seat to hear what happens next. She survived two massive strokes and then was diagnosed with breast cancer all before she was 40 years old. She had moments where she felt like her world was crumbling around her but soon realized it was actually falling into place. Listen to how she had to pause in her pain to pull out the passion and the purpose in her life that led to the creation of LIFT After Breast Cancer, LLC.

We are a podcast produced by SHARE Cancer Support. Be sure to check out the SHARE Website for any info or resources you may need.

Thanks for listening!