My name is Erika Buffaloe.
On July 18, 2022, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer. I’ve completed 16 rounds of chemotherapy infusion therapy, had a lumpectomy with breast reduction, completed 33 rounds of radiation, and 6 months of oral chemotherapy pills to date. I’m managing my lymphedema after removal of 3 lymph nodes during surgery where cancer was located after surgery. I’m a warrior!
They say there is no evidence of cancer to date.
Every day, I learn more about breast cancer and the importance of raising awareness. I share my story often and loudly, recognizing that it may help someone else. As the stories of so many other survivors have encouraged me.
Survivorship is another journey in itself. Today, I’m grateful to be alive and able to share with you.
TNBC is an aggressive form of breast cancer that can be difficult to treat and targets specific populations.
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are tumors that test negative for estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and excess HER2 protein. These results mean the growth of the cancer is not fueled by the hormones estrogen and progesterone, or by the HER2 protein. About 10-20 percent of breast cancers are triple-negative breast cancers.
TNBC does not respond to hormonal therapy medicines or medicines that target HER2 protein receptors. TNBC is typically treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
While TNBC can show up in anyone, researchers have found that it is more prevalent in the following populations:
- Younger people. TNBC is more likely to be diagnosed in people younger than 50. Other types of breast cancer are more commonly diagnosed in people age 60 or older.
- African-American and Hispanic women. TNBC is more likely to be diagnosed in African-Canadian and African-American women and Hispanic women.
I have no history of breast cancer in my family. And the pathology report after my surgery showed that chemotherapy was not successful in killing my cancer, hence the 33 sessions of radiation, which included a boost. In addition to chemotherapy therapy pills.
I am truly grateful to be alive. However, the medication has changed my body… I gained 40 pounds, lost muscle mass, and fought every day to rebuild my endurance.
The fight continues as this is survivorship for me: learning how to continue to raise awareness and live after breast cancer.
Thank you for reading my story.
