Feb 06 2025 77 mins 1
📢I talk🎙️with Dr Pamela Hayes, M.D. Medical Oncologist at Texas Oncology in Dallas, TX. She specializes in Hematology and Medical Oncology! 👏🍷 🎇 🎉 ✨ 👏 🥂 😁
💬 "It's your journey. Don't compare it to anyone else." - Dr. Pamela Hayes
This summer, I was diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer (DCIS)—a mild case, but still life-changing. I sat down with my oncologist, Dr. Pamela Hayes, to share my experience and spread awareness about early detection, treatment, and recovery. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:
Watch on YouTube! https://youtu.be/R9HIy93UP-0
🔬 Early Detection & Diagnosis
✔️ Mammograms matter! Many cases are caught early through routine screening.
✔️ Dense breast tissue = more screening (I had it & was called back for more tests).
✔️ DCIS is "stage zero" cancer, meaning the cells are abnormal but haven't spread.
💬 "Think of it like a tiger in a cage. Given enough time, it can break out." - Dr. Hayes on DCIS
🏥 Treatment Journey
📌 Biopsy & Lumpectomy: Surgery removed abnormal cells, but margins were close—so I had a second procedure.
📌 Radiation: Based on my risk score, radiation was recommended to prevent recurrence. I had 21 treatments. And I Rang the Bell!
📌 Hormone Therapy: I’m on low-dose tamoxifen for 5 years to reduce future risk.
💬 "Our goal is to make sure this NEVER comes back." - Dr. Hayes
🧬 What Increases Breast Cancer Risk?
🔸 Family history & genetics (BRCA gene mutations)
🔸 Early puberty or late menopause
🔸 Dense breast tissue (like mine!)
🔸 Obesity & lack of exercise
🔸 Alcohol consumption (moderation is key!)
💬 "Alcohol isn't the biggest risk factor, but excess can increase estrogen levels, which fuel some breast cancers." - Dr. Hayes
💪 Life After Treatment
🌿 Exercise helps! I’m walking 2-3 miles/day & doing weight training.
🍎 Balanced diet > extreme diets. No need to cut out everything!
🩺 Regular screenings & check-ups are a must.
💬 "Tiny changes make a big impact." - Dr. Hayes
💖 Final Thoughts
Breast cancer is emotionally and physically overwhelming, but having a strong support system, great doctors, and the right mindset makes all the difference. If you're going through this or know someone who is, you're not alone.
💬 "Your body is constantly working to protect you—trust it, take care of it, and stay proactive."
🎉 #GetYourBoobsSqueezed 🎉
👀 PSA, ladies! It’s time for your annual mammogram—because early detection saves lives!
💖 Mammos after 40 = Self-care & peace of mind!
💖 Takes just 20 minutes! (Faster than your Starbucks run ☕)
💖 Smash those boobs, not your chances!
👉 No excuses—schedule your mammogram to
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