Navigating Stage-2 Breast Cancer with Faith and Medical Advice

Metastatic breast cancer can be incredibly daunting, but for some, the decision to trust in faith and medical guidance can provide a path forward. Gloria, a brave woman diagnosed with breast cancer, shares her story of survival and trust in divine providence. Here, she discusses her experiences, alongside others who have faced similar challenges, in navigating stage-2 breast cancer with both faith and medical care.

Your Journey with Stage-2 Breast Cancer

Your experience with stage-2 breast cancer, involving a biopsy and radiation but no involvement of nodes, has been a significant test of faith and resilience. Deciding not to pursue the estrogen stopper pill (like the letrozole prescribed to Gloria) due to the many side effects over a five-year period requires immense strength and trust in a higher power.

Balancing Trust and Medical Advice

Many seek to entrust their lives to medical professionals, but it is often the personal journey of faith that leads them to make decisions that may seem unconventional to others. For Gloria, trust in God was paramount, and she leaned on apricot seeds as her primary means of treatment for her breast cancer.

Seeking Expert Medical Advice

Dr. Gilbert Lederman, who prescribed Letrozole, is a testament to the reliability of medical expertise. As an example, you chose to follow his advice despite concerns, at the age of 68, noting his lifelong success in this field. While your choice was based on faith and the doctors' recommendations, it's important to weigh the risks and benefits of any decision made regarding cancer treatment.

Challenges of Endocrine Therapy

For Gloria, the decision not to take the estrogen blocker was a relief, as she had to endure side effects that included achiness, fatigue, brain fog, and skin changes. Her story highlights the importance of discussing all available options with trusted medical professionals before making a final decision.

Expert Opinions on Endocrine Therapy

Turn to expert medical advice for guidance. Dr. Nadia Harbeck emphasizes the importance of considering endocrine therapy for ER-sensitive breast cancer, especially in combination with lifestyle and diet adjustments. New advancements in 3rd generation aromatase inhibitors, along with temporary ovarian function suppression, have shown promising results in improving median progression-free time and overall survival, even in metastatic cases.

Alternative Approaches

For those who hesitate to use traditional medical treatments, such as the estrogen blocker, alternative methods like Gloria's use of apricot seeds may be considered. However, it's crucial to consult with medical professionals and oncologists to ensure that any treatment plan does not compromise your health or the effectiveness of your care.

Conclusion: Balancing Faith and Medical Advice

For Gloria and others with stage-2 breast cancer, the balance between faith and medical advice is crucial. While following a treatment plan recommended by doctors like Dr. Lederman and Dr. Harbeck is essential, ultimately, the decision about which path to follow lies in the hands of the individual and their faith.

Whichever path you choose, remember to prioritize your health, consider all available treatment options, and seek support from both medical professionals and your faith community. Having faith and seeking medical advice can coexist, providing a supportive and informed approach to navigating stage-2 breast cancer.