Editor’s note: October is breast cancer awareness month. Make your screening appointment today!
Cyndi Ris, originally from Colorado, returned to her home state after two decades of following her spouse’s military career. Throughout those years, she held various jobs as a military spouse until the birth of their daughter in 2015. Today, Cyndi and her husband are proud parents of two children and are living happily back in Colorado after several years of hardship.
Genetic Testing:
In 2019, Cyndi’s life took an unexpected turn when her mother, who was diagnosed with a different type of cancer, underwent genetic testing and tested positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation. This mutation increases the risk of breast, ovarian, pancreatic and melanoma cancers. The geneticist recommended that her mother’s children also undergo testing. At the time, Cyndi was living in the UK and pregnant with her son, so she delayed testing. Her older sister, however, tested positive and opted for preventative surgery.
Upon moving back to Edwards Air Force Base in 2021, Cyndi decided it was time to undergo genetic testing. The clinic explained the implications of a positive BRCA2 result and, in December, confirmed that Cyndi was positive for the gene. This news was upsetting to her, not only because of her own health but also due to concerns about her children possibly inheriting the gene.
Treatment Journey:
Cyndi met with a genetic counselor via Zoom, but found the session unhelpful since she had already decided against preventative surgery, opting instead for more frequent scans. Her first mammogram, initially scheduled for September, was expedited to May after some persistence. The results raised concerns, leading to an MRI and consultations at UCLA in Santa Clarita over 70 miles away.
Following a biopsy, it was confirmed there were tumors in one breast, necessitating a double mastectomy due to the BRCA2 mutation. The double mastectomy and the beginning of reconstruction were completed in July 2022 at UCLA Westwood (over 100 miles away).
The following months were a whirlwind of medical procedures:
- A port was placed in October at UCLA Santa Clarita.
- Chemotherapy was administered from October to December at UCLA Santa Clarita.
- Her ovaries were removed in January 2023 at City of Hope in Santa Clarita due to the increased risk of ovarian cancer and the estrogen-fueled nature of her breast cancer.
- Implants were placed and the port removed in February 2023 at UCLA Westwood.
Ongoing Care and Support:
Cyndi’s routine included regular blood draws and check-ups every three months, and she now takes an estrogen-blocking cancer drug for the next 5-10 years. Travel for treatment was challenging, often requiring very early departures to avoid rush hour traffic to locations 100+ miles away. Her husband, Patrick, and a network of friends known as the “Lupine Ladies” provided support by watching the children and assisting with logistics.
For major surgeries, the family sometimes stayed overnight in hotels to ensure timely arrival for early appointments. As a pilot, Patrick’s job demanded careful planning to balance his work commitments and family responsibilities. Friends and family played a crucial role, stepping in to help with childcare and transportation during Cyndi’s recovery periods.
Chemotherapy was particularly tough, with Patrick accompanying her for the first session. Subsequent sessions saw family members taking over driving duties as Cyndi couldn’t drive post-treatment. The support network extended beyond local friends; her TPS classmates and other well-wishers sent weekly care packages, which lifted her spirits. She acknowledges that without such a robust support system of military spouses and friends, her experience would have been very different.
The long drives to UCLA Westwood for appointments were taxing, sometimes taking up to four hours. On one occasion, she arrived late, and despite the initial hesitation from the staff, her plastic surgeon accommodated her. Living closer to her oncologist now, just five minutes away, has been a significant relief. Cyndi emphasizes the importance of being one’s own advocate in healthcare, seeking second opinions when necessary, and choosing the best available care.
Cyndi attributes much of her positive outlook to her excellent insurance, Tricare, which covered all her treatments and even reimbursed her for a wig. Her mother’s positive attitude during her cancer fight inspired Cyndi to maintain a hopeful perspective throughout her journey. Cyndi’s story is a testament to the power of a supportive community, the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, and the resilience required to navigate the challenges of genetic cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Helping a Loved One With Breast Cancer:
Breast cancer is a significant health concern that impacts many families, including those in the military. Military families facing breast cancer have access to various resources that provide medical care, support, and information including but not limited to:
TRICARE Coverage: TRICARE, the health care program serving military personnel and their families, covers all necessary breast cancer treatments such as surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and reconstructive surgeries. It also includes cancer screenings like mammograms, often at no cost or for a small copayment.
Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs): Many MTFs offer specialized oncology services. Military families can receive treatment at these facilities, where care is typically provided by military personnel or civilian healthcare providers working in the Department of Defense health system.
Veterans Health Administration (VHA): If a veteran develops breast cancer, the VHA can provide treatment and services. This includes access to medical specialists and comprehensive cancer care programs.
Support Groups and Counseling: Both military bases and VA hospitals often host support groups for individuals dealing with cancer. Counseling services are also available to help patients and families cope emotionally with the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Having a support system is beneficial for anyone.
For military families dealing with breast cancer, it’s important to reach out to healthcare providers, social workers, or patient advocates at military or VA facilities to understand fully and utilize the available resources.