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Meet Kristin Neuman, 39—she’s an ABA Therapist at Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center who loves scrapbooking, sewing, knitting and exercising, is happily married to her fire fighter husband for 18 years, and is a breast cancer SURVIVOR.

“Even though the American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for women starting at age 40, I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 37,” Kristin explained. “My doctor advised me to get mammograms at age 35 because I had dense breast tissue. It was painless, and since I was just at my OB appointment a week prior, I could’ve easily ignored it and downplayed the severity. What would’ve happened if I waited? My mother was diagnosed with a similar form of breast cancer around the same exact time. What would’ve happened if SHE waited? Words can’t express how important it is to schedule your annual breast exam. Don’t wait…even if you’re under the age of 40. Talk to your physician immediately if you’re concerned. Early detection really does save lives and Franciscan Health saved mine.”


Woman Crush Wednesday presented by Franciscan Health Cancer Center

We’re teaming up with our sister station, 97.1 HANK FM, to honor Kristin and more survivors & fighters at Woman Crush Wednesday presented by Franciscan Health Cancer Center featuring country artists Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Abby Anderson and Caylee Hammack on October 30th. Will you join us in support of these incredible women and Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

*$5 from every ticket sold will be donated to the Franciscan Health Foundation benefiting cancer patients.


Learn more about Kristin’s story:

What type of breast cancer did/do you have?

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC); Stage 1, HER2+ (March 2018).

 

What was your treatment plan? Lumpectomy, mastectomy, plastic surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, etc.?

Treatment included chemo, lumpectomy and radiation. She finished radiation last Thanksgiving and is one year out from both chemo and surgery.

Kristin’s mom was actually diagnosed around the same time with Stage 0 HER2 -, Estrogen +, which the treatment involved pills.

LEARN MORE: GENETIC COUNSELING FOR THOSE AT RISK

 

Who were your caregivers at the Cancer Center?

Drs. Rubenstein, Ikhlaque, Eaton and Rager (surgeon).

 

What are some of the high/low points during your journey?

HIGHS:

  • Good surgery outcomes
  • “Getting through it and being a survivor”

LOWS:

  • Daughters adjusting and having to miss out on sporting events and activities
  • Depression – saw a counselor
  • Complications with chemo and renal failure

 

Why would they recommend Franciscan Health for cancer treatment?

“I had good treatment from doctors. They did their best to address questions and concerns. I had doctors on-call and they were always nice and friendly. The staff will laugh and cry with you. They just made an overall effort.”

 

What advice would they give to women about cancer prevention?

“Women should get mammograms before 40 years of age. Go immediately if you have a concern. Don’t wait!”

 

Photo Credit: Getty Images / Franciscan Health / Kristin Neuman