“I am not my health struggles, but what does define me is the discipline, the consistency, the strength, and the faith.”
For Denise, those words reflect a journey marked by unexpected medical findings, multiple surgeries, and years of uncertainty about her breast health. Through it all, she has held on to her faith and a determination to keep moving forward.
Today, her experience has given her something else: a desire to help other women find strength in their own health struggles.
An Unexpected Discovery
Denise was cooking dinner one evening when she turned around and accidentally bumped into a door. She felt a sharp pain in her breast but didn't think much of it. Later that night, she noticed a bloodstain on her undergarment. Concerned, she performed a breast self-exam and discovered a lump. She immediately contacted her gynecologist. What followed was a series of imaging exams, including mammograms, ultrasounds, and an MRI. Denise expected to learn more about the single lump she had felt. Instead, the results revealed several masses in both breasts.
“I felt like my jaw dropped,” she recalls.
Suddenly, there were more questions than answers. What began as one unexpected discovery became the start of a much longer journey with her breast health.
A Difficult Journey Through Multiple Surgeries
Within two weeks of completing her tests, Denise underwent her first surgery. Like anyone facing a procedure, she hoped it would bring relief and allow her to begin moving forward. But at her three-month follow-up appointment, she received news she wasn't prepared to hear. The tumors, cysts, and masses had returned.
Now, Julie’s life is filled with weekend trips, road adventures, live music, and laughter. “I got my life back,” she says. “I make less money than I used to, but it’s not as important to me because I’m happy. Nobody’s going to say, ‘Wow, Julie really killed it at Excel.’ I want to be remembered as someone fun, someone you could talk to.”
Her doctor recommended another surgery just two weeks later, even though Denise was still recovering from the first procedure. “I haven't even fully recovered from this surgery,” she remembers thinking.
As the surgeries continued, the physical and emotional toll grew heavier. Denise struggled to process what was happening. It wasn't just the physical recovery. It was also the emotional weight of going through so much and still not knowing what would come next. After her third surgery, Denise returned for another three-month follow-up. Once again, the masses had returned. Her surgeon explained that, because so much breast tissue had already been removed, there were limited options for further surgery. Going forward, continued monitoring would be an important part of managing her breast health. After everything she'd been through, that was a lot to take in. Denise had already faced multiple procedures and difficult recoveries. Now, she had to adjust to the reality that staying on top of her breast health would be an ongoing part of her life.
Finding Peace Through Consistent Breast Imaging
Following her surgeries, Denise began visiting MD Anderson every three months for testing to monitor her breast health and check for cancer. Today, she continues to undergo follow-up testing every six months. It's become a regular part of her life, something she considers essential to taking care of herself.
“For me, getting mammograms is very personal,” Denise says. “It gives me that peace to know that I'm okay.”
After years of uncertainty, that peace matters. Her appointments give her and her medical team an opportunity to monitor changes and stay informed about her health. Denise understands firsthand why staying consistent with recommended breast imaging matters. Her experience has also taught her the importance of listening to her body and speaking up when something doesn't feel right.
Breast imaging has become more than another appointment on her calendar. It's part of how she takes care of herself and finds reassurance in a journey that hasn't always been predictable.
Strength, Faith, and Helping Other Women
Through the uncertainty, Denise has discovered something about herself that no medical test could reveal. “From everything I've gone through, I've learned that I am a fighter,” she says.
Her faith has grown stronger, and her experiences have given her a renewed sense of purpose. Her faith has helped her navigate the difficult days, and her experiences have given her a deeper appreciation for her own strength. But one of the most meaningful things to come from her journey is her desire to help other women who may be facing something similar. Denise understands the fear that can come with an unexpected finding. She knows what it's like to wait for answers, face another procedure, and wonder what the next appointment might bring. She also knows that when you're in the middle of it all, it's not always easy to see your own strength.
Her message to other women is simple, but it comes from a place of experience. “Because down deep inside, you think that you're not strong, but you are.” For Denise, strength doesn't mean life has been easy. It means continuing to show up for herself, staying committed to her health, and finding ways to encourage others along the way.
Her health struggles are part of her story, but they aren't what defines her.
Take Charge of Your Breast Health
Denise's journey is a reminder of the importance of paying attention to changes in your body and following through with recommended breast screenings.
If you discover a new lump, notice an unusual breast change, or experience concerning symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider. A diagnostic mammogram or additional breast imaging may be recommended to help determine the cause.
we're committed to helping women take an active role in their breast health through advanced imaging and compassionate, personalized care. Don't put off an important conversation about your health.
Schedule your mammogram at a center located conveniently near you today.