Nurse Tammy McDevitt, 63, was taken aback when she received a diagnosis of Lobular Breast Cancer, a type she had never heard of before. Despite being a registered nurse care coordinator at the Cleveland Clinic’s Neurological Institute, McDevitt was unfamiliar with this form of cancer. Approximately 70% of breast cancers are classified as “ductal,” originating in the milk ducts, while 15-20% are invasive lobular breast cancer, which manifests in the area where breast milk is produced and stored, explained her oncologist, Dr. Shimoli Barot. This type of cancer is characterized by growth in thin strings resembling cobwebs, making it challenging to detect in early stages through conventional diagnostic scans. In fact, women with this cancer often do not feel a lump until it reaches an advanced stage, earning it the nickname ‘sneaky cancer.’
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Fortunately, McDevitt’s cancer was caught early, between stage 1 and stage 2, during a routine mammogram. Dr. Barot highlighted the significance of regular mammograms in detecting such breast cancers, emphasizing that despite the tests’ limitations, they remain effective in spotting abnormalities. In an effort to raise awareness about Lobular Breast Cancer and encourage women to prioritise mammograms, McDevitt decided to share her story. For her, this act of sharing experiences is a form of nursing that goes beyond the hospital walls. She hopes that by sharing her journey, she can potentially save lives and inspire others to prioritise their health through regular screenings.
Reflecting on her own experience, McDevitt recalled a pivotal moment during a mammogram in May 2022. Frustrated by a history of clean mammogram results due to dense breast tissue, she considered discontinuing the screenings. However, a conversation with a technologist urging her to continue these annual check-ups proved life-saving. Subsequent mammograms led to the detection of an “architectural distortion” in her left breast, a subtle abnormality that could have been easily overlooked. This discovery initiated a series of tests and eventually confirmed her worst fear – a malignant diagnosis.
Following the diagnosis, McDevitt underwent a partial mastectomy and reconstruction on both breasts in October 2024. Fortunately, she did not require chemotherapy but was prescribed an estrogen blocker for a decade due to the hormone receptor profile of her cancer. Despite the challenges posed by treatment, McDevitt navigated the journey with resilience, attributing her ability to cope to practices like acupuncture and her deep faith. She acknowledged the support of her close-knit circle of friends and family, whose unwavering presence provided solace and strength during the toughest moments.
As a healthcare professional, McDevitt’s perspective on patient care has been profoundly transformed by her own battle with cancer. While she works in neurology rather than oncology, her empathetic approach towards patients has been enhanced by her personal struggle. She now endeavours to instil hope and positivity in those facing challenging diagnoses, drawing from her own experiences to offer guidance and support. At the core of her message lies a reminder of the uncertainty of life and the importance of cherishing each moment, guided by faith and a determination to make a meaningful impact despite the odds.
Looking ahead, McDevitt remains optimistic about advances in medical science that may offer improved treatment options for lobular cancer. Despite the lingering concerns about the cancer potentially resurfacing, she maintains hope for a brighter future. With a newfound appreciation for life and a deepened sense of love and gratitude, McDevitt’s journey serves as a testament to resilience and the power of unwavering support in overcoming life’s toughest challenges.