093: Molly Lindquist survived breast cancer | mammogram | biopsy | bilateral mastectomy | chemotherapy

In this episode of the @CancerInterviews podcast, Molly Lindquist tells host Bruce Morton how she survived breast cancer.  She was only 32 when detected a lump in her left breast.  A trip to the doctor led to a biopsy, which led to her diagnosis, and a subsequent bilateral mastectomy.    Molly discovered the lump while taking a shower.  She thought it to be seen by her OBGYN.  The doctor thought the lump was likely nothing to be worried about, given Molly's age, but nonetheless ordered an ultrasound.  After the ultrasound, the doctor called for a mammogram.  After that, a biopsy.  Then a radiologist walked into the room and said, "We suspect this is cancer."   Molly Lindquist and her care team came up with a treatment plan.  She would undergo a bilateral mastectomy with chemotherapy.  The cancer was caught at an early stage.  The prognosis was good.    Even though the cancer was one breast, she opted to have both removed.  After the surgery, it took Molly a while to regain mobility and energy.  Next up was the chemotherapy.   She experienced just about all of the awful side effects associated with chemotherapy.  Hair loss, fatigue, the awful taste of food and cognitive issues.  She spent a lot of time on the couch watching TV and said it was jarring as one who was in good shape pre-diagnosis, found herself struggling to cross from one end of a room to the other.  As for the brain fog, Molly says it still materializes from time to time, to this day.    Molly Lindquist said she sensed her health was taking a turn for the better when her hair started growing back.  Overall, day to day, Molly says she is doing great.  There are some residual aches and pains, but she is very thankful to have them because she is still here, to have them.  Her other emotion was a fervent wish to help others diagnosed with breast cancer.   She joined an organization called Manta Cares.  It seeks to help those diagnosed with every imaginable phase of the breast cancer journey.    By way of advice, Molly Lindquist suggests to anyone to be there for a friend or loved one on a cancer journey, whether it is with a hug or a sympathetic ear or knowing when to give them their space.   Additional Resources:   Support Groups:   Manta Cares: https://www.mantacares.com   Breast Friends: https://www.breastfriends.org