Patient Journeys

Ana’s Story

Four years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had my typical mammogram late November 2008, and the radiologist said I needed a sonogram. I thought it was routine, since I’ve had it done in the past. My gynecologist called me and said the radiologist recommended a biopsy, which I had done.

Early December, my doctor called again and asked me to visit him, which I did, and this is when he said I had breast cancer. I immediately asked him “what are the next steps?” feeling very strong and wanting to do whatever was necessary, fast. Without thinking of anything else, like a machine, I called a very good friend who’s a surgeon specializing in cancer and scheduled an appointment. After talking to him, many thoughts ran through my head. I have two grown-up kids and my son has three beautiful kids, who are my joy. I was thinking “How would my life be now with this diagnosis?” With the prospect of going through cancer, the uncertainty gets you to review your life and how can you make it better. During the appointment with the surgeon, he said I needed surgery and we decided a mastectomy was the best solution. Another concern was, “How do I tell this to my mother and family, especially during Christmas time?” When I did announce it, I had all of my family and friends support.

I had the surgery, and then started treatment with my oncologist, and I asked him who had performed the best reconstructions he had seen – this is when he recommended Dr. Aldona Spiegel. Since my first appointment with her, I felt she and her staff were there to support me throughout this unknown process, ensuring I elected the best option based on my needs. I chose the DIEP flap, since I didn’t want any strange object inside my body and wanted to use my own tissue. Dr. Spiegel’s staff prepared me with all of the information I required to have a successful surgery and post-op care.

I’m not going to lie to you – for me it wasn’t painful at all, but it was very uncomfortable, especially with the drainage and walking and sleeping posture, but it was all worthwhile. I’m very happy with the results, not only from a physical perspective, but also an emotional one. I always had this group of excellent, sensible and caring people with me all the way. Thank you, Dr. Spiegel.

Ana

Ann’s Story

The summer of 2007 changed my life. As I type this today, five and a half years later, I can finally say that the change was for the better. Sometimes I cannot believe that I utter those words, since that was when I was told – no sugar coating whatsoever – that I had breast cancer…

Looking back now, I can vividly recall the fog as I walked the halls of Smith Tower – on my way to talk to my ob/gyn. I knew that he could help me plan my course of action, now that I had to deal with this “bump in the road”.

He gave me the names of breast surgeons that he suggested that I speak to on my journey. I knew that I would have biopsies and further imaging in the coming days/weeks; but I was thinking further down the road. I needed to investigate all options for every procedure. That’s my nature.

Breast surgeon. Check. Once I had my breast surgeon on board (I needed a mastectomy), I turned my attention to finding an oncologist. Check. Over the next 6 or 7 months, I attacked my cancer with surgery, chemo and radiation. And, throughout this entire process, I focused on the light at the end of the tunnel… a prophylactic mastectomy on my “healthy” breast and double reconstruction. Big question out there: “Who do I trust to perform this surgery?”

I began searching online for reconstruction options. I also spoke to other survivors and learned about their procedures and surgeons. I scheduled three appointments/consults with three very different surgeons while still in the midst of my chemo/radiation treatments. I knew that I was getting ahead of myself; but I just felt that I needed to be sure that I chose the best surgeon and best reconstructive procedure for my lifestyle. I was a 46 year old mother of two girls – one about to start high school, the other about to apply to colleges. The one thing in my life that helped maintain my sanity? A daily trip to the gym. Don’t get the idea that I am some kind of gym rat with a body to match! Heck no! I just need the gym to maintain my sanity!!

I interviewed some of the most highly regarded and frequently referred plastic surgeons in Houston. Two of them offered the TRAM procedure to me. One even wondered whether I would need implants to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result! I was floored! I knew without any doubt that my generous abdomen was the perfect donor for at least two newly constructed breasts!

I wasn’t getting the answers that I wanted, so my search continued. My brother had been in a deposition and had been impressed with a doctor’s resume/qualifications. That rock star physician was Dr. Aldona Spiegel. Because I value my brother’s opinion, I knew then that I would have to take a serious look at her.

During my initial consult with Dr. Spiegel, I expressed concern about being able to keep up my gym “therapy”, since I already knew that my friends had tremendous difficulty with simple exercises – particularly “crunches”. Needless to say, all of my concerns were put to rest when I met with Dr. Spiegel and her office staff. There would be no compromising of my abdominal muscles during my DIEP reconstruction procedure. Another bonus of this procedure? A “tummy tuck” as a result of the harvesting of my own fat and skin tissue to re-create my breasts! What woman wouldn’t want that???

I thank my lucky stars that Dr. Aldona Spiegel became an integral part of my journey to reclaim my life after hearing what every woman fears. I hope and pray that you never need her expertise; but, if you do, please schedule a consult. You will never look back; and only then will you understand why she’s a rock star!

Ann W.

Ashley’s Story

When I was 7 years old, I lost my maternal grandmother to ovarian cancer. I later learned she was a breast cancer survivor, diagnosed at the age of 36. A couple years later, my mother was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. She was 42 years old. Watching her go through chemotherapy and two surgeries, a mastectomy and tram-flap reconstruction, was extremely hard. I was so fearful of losing her too, but luckily she survived and has been cancer free for twenty years!

My mother tested positive for BRCA 2+ when I was in high school. I was so scared of the potential results that I waited until I was 28 years old to have the test. I always thought, I’m so young, I have time. After I graduated from optometry school and got married, I decided I needed to finally take the test in which I tested positive for BRCA 2+.

After talking with my oncologist, I decided to start my screening knowing there was the possibility of a prophylactic mastectomy as a form of treatment. I had many reasons I wanted to wait on surgery: children, breastfeeding, image, and just the general idea of wanting to wait until I was at least in my thirties. I also just started practicing optometry full time at my mother’s private practice and knew surgery would keep me from my new career.

Upon following the screening approach, my first mammogram showed calcifications in my left breast. I was out to lunch on my 29th birthday when my oncologist called with results of the biopsy: ductal carcinoma in situ, also referred to as stage 0 breast cancer. She said treatment was a double mastectomy and it needed to be soon.

The next couple of weeks were extremely tough emotionally. I was about to lose my breasts, which I loved. I knew I would never be able to breastfeed but would I look “normal” again? Would I feel less of a woman? What are expanders? I had so many questions. I felt alone and scared because I did not know anyone else my age at that time that had gone through a mastectomy.

After several physician referrals to see Dr. Spiegel, I decided to make an appointment. At my first consultation I felt so comfortable with her and her staff. She was very thorough and explained in detail the surgeries. She also showed me a before and after picture of a woman who looked similar to myself. Her results were amazing. I knew that day I had found a plastic surgeon I could trust.

Dr. Spiegel and the general surgeon performed a skin and nipple-sparing double mastectomy with the placement of tissue expanders. Naturally I was nervous to look in the mirror after the surgery, but when I did, I was in shock at how good I looked with just expanders. I was also extremely relieved that the hard part was over and I was cancer free. The next six months, I went to Dr.Spiegel’s office every three weeks to get the expanders filled. At each expansion, I felt more and more normal and could see how my future breasts were going to look. During the second surgery the expanders were removed and replaced with silicone implants.

I feel so confident with my implants. Honestly, I forget they are implants because they look and feel like my original breasts. I can wear a bikini with self-assurance that no one knows what I went through. Dr. Spiegel helped me to look “normal” if not better! Any fear I had of feeling less like a woman, she completely erased. I feel beautiful.

I am now the proud mother to a seven month old and could not have imagined my journey any other way.

Ashley B.

Cynthia’s Story

My 1st breast cancer in 2001 I had to focus on the cancer. Just hearing the word ‘cancer’ scares you. My oncologist stressed the importance of seeing a plastic surgeon, so I saw two and had very unsuccessful visits.

Well, four and a half years later I had a recurrence and at that point I knew I would have to do something, so I told my general surgeon I will now need reconstructive surgery. His reply was “I wish more people were as confident as you in knowing what they want.” My next visit was to Dr. Aldona Spiegel. The moment they entered the room I knew I was in good hands; her nurse was so warm. When Dr. Spiegel came in I felt so calm because she was so pleasant as she explained my options to my niece, friend and me. From that point I met her physician assistant and several others who all were so very pleasant. One visit I asked Dr. Spiegel about the length of my surgery since I was quite concerned about the 10-hour surgery. Her reply was “You will be sleeping and I will be doing what I love!” I thought to myself “Thank you, Jesus.” After surgery I had healing complications, so I had many visits to Dr. Spiegel’s office and every time everyone there was so compassionate and patient with me. My sister and great nephew, Nicholas, accompanied me to the visits. Everyone in the office fell in love with little Nicholas. I thank God for Dr. Spiegel and her staff for making me feel beautiful and that I deserved to feel whole again. I now live each and every day to the fullest. I want other women now facing what I went through to know you’ll be just fine with Dr. Spiegel and her staff taking great care of you. There is a wonderful life waiting to be lived after this breast cancer/reconstruction journey.

Cynthia H.

Debbie’s Story

My name is Debbie and I am a nurse in the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Department at Methodist. My own breast reconstruction journey began in January 1998. Just a few short months after my 41st birthday, I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma on a routine mammogram – a mammogram that was a bonus Methodist was providing at the time. Yes, I owe my life to that extra screening. My first mammogram was at age 35 for a baseline and the second was at age 40, which showed no cancer. I was not a risk candidate and had no family history, but at the time TMH was allowing us to do yearly mammograms, so I took the opportunity. It was on this extra screening that my cancer was detected. I was devastated for I realized that my prognosis could have been fatal if not for that extra mammogram. I underwent a mastectomy and six months of chemotherapy. Plastic Surgeons and General Surgeons at that time did not work together like they do now. Of course, I am grateful for that now since I found Dr. Spiegel and could have my reconstruction performed by the best. My journey took approximately 10 years, but when I had my reconstructive surgery in 2009 it changed my life.

Family and friends were extremely supportive and always there for me, however, I still felt alone. After all, I was the “strong one” in the family that everyone turned to. For 10 years I wore a removable prosthesis in my bra. It was a constant reminder that I was not complete. This was like torture. They were hot, heavy and I needed one for all my sizes! My clothes did not feel right and I was self-conscious that everyone could just look at me and tell. A feeling of guilt was ever present as well. How could I feel this way when I had so much to be thankful for? After all, I was alive. I was able to watch my daughters turn into beautiful women. Standing by my daughter’s side at her beautiful wedding was one of the highlights of my life. But, most of all, witnessing the birth of my grandson has been the best part of this journey. The reconstruction gave me back my life, making me confident in every way possible.

Professionally, I am very privileged to work at Methodist and have the advantage to work closely with Dr. Spiegel and her associates and to be a part of making women whole again. Selecting my surgeon was the easiest decision I have ever made, after all, I knew Dr. Spiegel even as a resident. Her compassion for her patients attracted me as much as her surgical skills. I was, however, extremely nervous about the surgery itself and going to ICU afterwards but the care I received from Dr. Spiegel, her staff, and Methodist’s staff was excellent.

As part of my evaluation at TMH I was asked to write a narrative about how my practice impacts patients. I would like to share a portion of that narrative: Ms. C a 47 year old diagnosed with breast cancer – On the day of her surgery I went to interview her and as I began she started crying. I tried to comfort her, but she said, “You just don’t understand what I’m going through!” I took her hand and said, “Yes I do. Two years ago I was in your place and I have a rule. My patients do not cry alone…” So, for 12 plus years I have been that person who can relate to what my patients are going through. Each patient deals with this process differently and may need different kinds of support. Dr. Spiegel’s Dreamers support group and my profession allow me to be a part of helping women through all phases of dealing with their diagnosis, treatments, surgeries, and most important getting their lives back.

At first the diagnosis is overwhelming and a feeling of desperation takes over. For 10 years I said to myself “will I ever get my life back?” But now, after my reconstruction, I actually have trouble remembering the sequence of events and things which consumed my every thought. I enjoy life to the fullest and am so thankful for the things that make me happy: my family, my friends, and the opportunity to help others. I love my grandson, Graham, so much and just hearing him call me Nana is all I need and I have so much more.

Debbie R.

Holly’s Story

Life was good as the New Year 2007 started. I had just opened my business (Hollyworks) and it was doing well. I had a good marriage of 20 years and then in February I was diagnosed with breast cancer. When I heard the news I felt like I had been hit in the stomach by a prize fighter. I shared it with my Mom and my husband but didn’t tell anyone else. I just didn’t know what to say to people without crying or without feeling like a loser. I had never been sick before. Never even broken a bone before. I never liked people to worry about me or fuss over me because I was always in control. And now I had to tell them I wasn’t.

My gynecologist outlined several ways to proceed for treatment: find a doctor in my neighborhood close to home or go to MD Anderson in the Houston Medical Center. She said after treatment she had heard wonderful things about what doctors can do with reconstructive surgery. But at this point my head was spinning – how could I possibly think about reconstructive surgery when I needed to cut off one of my breasts first. I’d had it 50 years and the thought of removing it made me stick my head in the ground.

I visited a few doctors in my part of town for both oncology and reconstruction and was horrified by both. I didn’t get a positive message from any of them. One reconstruction doctor told me that there was no way my breasts would ever match again. When I asked him why he couldn’t work on both breasts to make them match he said – we’ll only work on the breast with cancer but it will never look like the real breast. This didn’t seem right and was very discouraging.

About 3 months into the adventure I finally confided in a friend whose daughter is a Surgical Anesthesiologist and she came back with a recommendation that changed my life!

She told me about Dr. Aldona Spiegel, a surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction. It sounded too good to be true! I called Dr. Spiegel and spoke to a nurse in her office who explained that most people come to her after their cancer surgery and treatment was complete. They agreed to see me although I was just beginning my process.

I felt like I was in the hands of angels when I met with Dr. Spiegel and her team. They explained my options and processes and assured me that I would come out of this looking better than ever. After the initial meeting with Dr. Spiegel, she met with a group of us (4 other new patients) to further explain the process. Most were further along in the process than I was but the person that stood out was a woman who was having her reconstruction re-done because it was done by a hand surgeon. She had gotten a bad surgery and said that when she ran to the phone it felt like a rock was hitting her heart. A hand surgeon!!! She didn’t know there was a better alternative. She didn’t know there was a surgeon who had dedicated herself to reconstructing women’s breasts after cancer.

I planned my entire cancer surgery, treatment and reconstruction with Dr. Spiegel and team from the removal of breasts, chemotherapy, radiology and finally reconstruction. The process took 4 years but now it seems so worth it. I have been cancer free for 5 years! And I’ve been so thrilled with my new body – a flat stomach I never had before and breasts that are exactly the right size for my frame – AND they match!!!

The physical work that Dr. Spiegel and her team do is phenomenal but the love and support is way above and beyond what I would have received anywhere else. It’s hard going through the cancer process but during these 4 years I also lost my house to hurricane Ike (as I was finishing chemo) and the following year went through a painful divorce. Through all of the trauma (and drama!) I looked forward to my visits to Dr. Spiegel and her team who asked all the right questions, lifted me up, and made me feel like a million bucks every time I walked in the door.

This is why I like to say I got a Makeover from God. My 4 year cancer adventure started and ended at Dr. Spiegel’s office and she and the rest of the team lifted me, cheered me, and helped create a new me. I’m so proud to say that I love the new me (my fiancé does, too!). I look better than ever and have never been happier.

THANK YOU Dr. Spiegel and TEAM.

Holly B.

Jessica’s Story

When I was in fifth grade, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought it and won for a little while, but by the time I was a senior in high school, it finally killed her. My aunt (her sister) had died from breast cancer a few years prior. To my knowledge, all the women in my family had died from cancer. Growing up and into adulthood, I was pretty sure that breast cancer was going to get me, too. It just seemed like the inevitable based on my family history. When I was in my twenties, I did the genetic testing and it confirmed my suspicions that I was BRCA2 positive. I did surveillance and gave myself until I was 35 to decide what to do.

At first I was reluctant to have a mastectomy. The whole thought of it was unnerving and some said it was “drastic.” But then I went to a conference for high risk women and learned that a mastectomy would reduce my chances to less than 1%. Then I felt really dumb for having waited so long, because the choice was clear. Ultimately, it came down to handling the cancer issue on my own terms, or waiting to deal with it if/when I was diagnosed. I decided that it was far easier to schedule a mastectomy and reconstruction on my own terms than to have to deal with chemo, radiation, and related adventures later when it may be far less convenient. Some people say that my mastectomy and reconstruction was “elective,” but for me there was really no choice.

I decided to have a mastectomy with delayed reconstruction (expanders) early in the year and within about 6 months, I had the procedure. Although I was concerned, I went in very healthy so mostly I worried about how quickly I would recover and what I could expect afterward in terms of getting back to real life. I like to be active, with work, family, and trying to stay healthy (I’m an avid Cross Fitter and enjoy running), so I was worried that I would not be able to do the things I love and I would be bedridden for weeks. I had no idea how long I would be down and it concerned me. But the day after I got home from the hospital I went to the grocery with my husband and within ten days of the surgery I was back at work! The surgery and the recovery were so much easier than I had expected. Not long after, I was pretty much back to the normal. I had expanders for about five months and they were a pain (not literally), but I reminded myself all of it was easy compared to having cancer. The expanders did not slow me down and I was able to do everything I needed to do for work and for my family (although I used it all as an excuse to teach the kids about cooking and other various responsibilities.)

Dr. Spiegel and her staff were absolutely amazing throughout the experience. During my first visit, we discussed my options and it was very clear from the beginning where we were going and how we would get there. She was very honest about what she could do and what I could expect, and her honesty and clarity made things much better. I asked her a ton of questions, some relevant and some not, but she took the time to answer all of them. Her staff was equally helpful, which made me feel comfortable about the process. They were very responsive to my phone calls and emails and were just super nice the entire way through. Dr. Spiegel also clearly cares about her patients and her work product. I got the feeling that she cares more about how my breasts look at the end then I do, which is something.

Right now, I am four weeks post-operative after having the expanders replaced with my implants. I feel bionic and it is as if the reconstruction gave me a new perspective. This new normal means I don’t have to worry about the possibility of cancer and I have fantastic new breast instead. Even now, telling people that I had a mastectomy feels weird, but I could not be happier with my prognosis and my body. I have just started running again and have had no problem getting back to real life. My job is demanding with long hours and lots of hustling in the office, but the surgeries haven’t slowed me down at all.

Even on days when I took it easy to recover, I just reminded myself that any sort of discomfort or tiredness I was feeling was far better than actually having cancer. I am glad I made the choice to have a prophylactic mastectomy and I am glad I chose Dr. Spiegel to do the reconstruction. I feel blessed to have found such a professional, competent, and caring doctor to help me through such a profound life decision. I cannot imagine having to deal with this with any other doctor.

Jessica A.

Kara’s Story

If I have any wisdom to share from this process, it’s that the journey is individual. Every diagnosis is different, and every treatment is different. But regardless of your diagnosis or treatment options and preferences, the fact remains that knowledge is power. Knowing as much as you can as early as possible about your treatment and recovery will help you feel empowered to make the best choices for you. Find the physicians who take the full you into account and listen to you. You are not the cause of this disease, and you have the right to not only treat the disease, but also to find the treatment options that will get you as close to feeling normal as possible. Be an advocate for yourself, or find someone who will do this with you. My advice is to consult with a plastic surgeon as early as possible, because they can be part of your treatment plan. Undoubtedly I would say call Dr. Spiegel. The more you know your options, the better you will feel about your outcome – my theory is that it is best to have no regrets about “what could have been”.

Now for my story –

I was diagnosed in 2012 at the age of 47 with invasive ductal tubular carcinoma in my right breast, typically a slow growing cancer. I was lucky to have been diagnosed early – which the surgeon attributed to the 3-D imaging that I was lucky enough to have received. I remain very thankful for having that technology available to me, many women do not.

I felt scared and shocked – and stupid. I knew so little. I was referred to two surgeons. The first surgeon explained that my best option was a lumpectomy with radiation. Not knowing much about this, it sounded like the right path to take, assuming the test didn’t show anything new. However, when I went home and started researching this treatment option on the internet, I began to doubt that decision. I assessed that a lumpectomy with radiation had some serious disadvantages that I needed to further consider, including the potential for having to be redone within days if the margins didn’t come back clean. Even more concerning to me was this nagging feeling I had that this was just putting a Band-Aid on the problem. I would still have to have mammograms – now likely more often than annually because I would be even higher risk. Based on my past experience with dense breasts, I suspected I was heading down a path of repeat mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies and the endless waiting game to see if the cancer had reemerged. In addition, I knew I would have a lump out of one breast and that the radiation used to treat the affected breast could complicate any reconstruction option that I might want to do in that area. Or, even more concerning, if the cancer came back and I needed a mastectomy; my reconstruction options could be less optimal. Armed with this new information, I went to see the second surgeon. He understood that I might want to do a double mastectomy even though he also initially recommended a lumpectomy with radiation. However, after listening to me, he supported the double mastectomy as a means to lower my overall risk and to avoid future biopsies and the stress it induced.

Having found the surgeon that offered me another option; I was sent to undergo a series of tests and was referred to a couple of plastic surgeons. The test confirmed that I did not have any signs of cancer anywhere else, and that the type of cancer I had would likely not need chemotherapy. All great news! Then I moved on to the plastic surgeons. One surgeon couldn’t see me for months and the other gave me no confidence that the outcome of the mastectomies would be great. In fact, the quote I remember is he said “you will look perfectly normal with your clothes on”. I was so frustrated and upset… I didn’t want to look good with my clothes on – I wanted to look good with my clothes off!!! I just wanted to find a team of physicians that worked together that I trusted to treat me.

Before this experience, I didn’t realize how many people are involved in treatment. Radiologists, general surgeon, plastic surgeon, oncologist, and who knows who else! But in my case I had to find a general surgeon and a plastic surgeon that would work together to give me the result I wanted – double mastectomy with the goal of normal-looking breasts. I knew this was an option for me based on what the surgeon had said, but I couldn’t find that team. I felt completely lost in the system. I went to another healthcare system and found the same reluctance to perform a mastectomy.

It was now four months since diagnosis and I was getting panicked to get this thing out. (Some would say that was a crazy amount of time to wait, but I was told that I had time – so I took it). After what seemed to be endless tests, biopsies, doctor visits with surgeons, plastic surgeons, oncologists… I just felt overwhelmed, lost and hopeless. I wasn’t sad about my diagnosis anymore; I was just completely baffled by the system. I knew I never wanted to have another breast biopsy. I never wanted to wait endless days for the biopsy results. I never wanted to waste my life like that again. But I could not find a surgeon and plastic surgeon team that gave me hope of a great outcome. By great result, I meant that my cancer would be gone and I would have decent looking breasts again. I was a 32 DDD, and these girls had played a big part in my self-image my whole life. This is not wrong – it’s ok to love your breasts and to want to keep them. Some doctors made me feel guilty about caring about what they would look like after treatment, and I look back now and think shame on them. We have the right to want to feel beautiful, and having cancer should not wipe this away. Physicians should respect this. I could and would live without them if I had to, but I didn’t have to – I just needed the right surgeons.

I spent my life on the internet, googling everything I could. It was through a random search on a cancer survivor blog that saw the name of Dr. Aldona Spiegel mentioned and that she had performed a beautiful skin-sparing, nipple-sparing reconstruction. While this is not an option for everyone – I knew that it might be for me. I immediately researched her, and loved the testimonials I saw on her website. Her patients seemed to love her! I longed to find any physician I could say that about! I sent them an email from their website, and within a couple days I was contacted and immediately brought in. I already felt like someone cared.

The appointment was the answer to my prayers. I remember after she examined me, I asked if I could just have both of them removed and built back somehow to look normal. She said absolutely – and I was not crazy for wanting this!!! And – she had two great surgeons that she knew could work with her to keep my skin and nipples! I went to the car to call my husband and I cried. He said he was sorry it didn’t go well – and I laughed and said I was crying tears of joy because I had finally found my path – I had a sense of peace.

Truthfully, the rest of the story where I get the double mastectomy and reconstruction is the easy part – silly as that sounds. Once I found Dr. Spiegel, it all just fell in place. I had surgery where they removed the tissue and inserted expanders. Because I am thin, she chose to reconstruct with implants instead of alternative procedures. I was a little nervous that this option would not be as good, but it has been wonderful for me. Dr. Spiegel and Dr. Baker kept my skin and nipples, and they thrived! The first two weeks of recovery were challenging – but manageable with support of family and friends. The worst part was the drains – because they tugged a bit and they were annoying – but really I was not in much pain, and what I did have was well managed by Dr. Spiegel. I also had huge anxiety about removing the drains, but that was silly because I didn’t even feel it! After a few weeks, we started the expansion process, which was also painless. I did this every couple of weeks until we both liked the size. This was actually a fun process – because for once I had a say on how large my chest should be! Once we had the right size, we let them rest for a bit. After four months I had outpatient surgery to trade in the expanders for beautiful, perky pair of implants!

I am now three weeks out from that surgery and I can say they are beautiful. They feel real and look real, and let me just say that they look good with my clothes on – and even more importantly – without! I plan to be wearing a bikini soon! Although the down side of this surgery is that I don’t have sensation in my breasts, I don’t seem to miss it all that much. I feel completely normal. Amazing! I was told I no longer need to get mammograms. I know I’ll never undergo another painful breast biopsy or wait for the dreaded results. I am so completely happy with my decision and overwhelmed by the results. I owe this to the support of family and friends, to endless people who write about their experiences on the internet and share successes and failures, and for Dr. Spiegel and Dr. Baker, who offered me the option I knew in my heart must exist. Lastly, I thank God for watching over me and giving me the strength to stay true to my instincts.

God bless you as you start this journey. May you have strength and courage to fight this fight and to seek and demand the path that is right for you. Please know that despite the rough days ahead, there are many people fighting for you to have a happy ending to this journey. Stay strong.

Kara T.

Kathy’s Story

Diagnosed with breast cancer August 3, 2005, was devastating for me. A lumpectomy was performed within days, then chemo followed and then I was scheduled for radiation. Worried with the concern the cancer would return, I decided the best decision for me was actually a double mastectomy. This is where my journey began.

April 3, 2006, I met the most amazing and caring woman – Dr. Aldona Spiegel. My options were explained entirely, my first decision was made and the mastectomy was done in July with expanders placed in to keep the breast skin stretched. I was now facing whether I wanted implants or the DIEP flap surgery. Dr. Spiegel and I talked several times about all the differences between the two procedures. In June of 2008, I finally decided implants were the route I was going to pursue, however remaining open to the possibility of the DIEP flap eventually.

I was happy with the implants, but my breast just didn’t really look or feel natural enough to me. In September of 2011, I went back to see Dr. Spiegel to discuss the DIEP flap surgery in excessive detail. She left me with no unanswered questions or concerns about the procedure – during the surgery, recovery, or my well-being afterwards. I left her office knowing exactly what to expect with the surgery. On March 27, 2012 I took my leap of faith with the DIEP flap and my life has now been forever changed. It changed the way I look at myself as a woman. I stand taller, smile bigger, and feel beautiful on the inside as well as outside. I never dreamed I would or could look whole again. DIEP flap surgery is an option every woman should have, to make her whole again.

Thank You, Dr. Spiegel. Because of you, I feel like a total woman again. I am a SURVIVOR enjoying my life with my husband and family.

Kathy G.

Lois’s Story

I was 47 years old and single. Then I met the man of my dreams and after dating for 6 weeks, we got engaged. I had felt a lump in my breast so I decided I should get it checked before I got married. Two weeks after my engagement, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a mastectomy on May 25, 2004 and walked down the aisle to marry the man of my dreams on June 13, 2004. After all the treatment—chemo and radiation—I had my breast reconstruction done in 2005. The reconstruction was not what I hoped for. In fact it was so bad that I never bothered to have the nipple and tattoo done. Over the next 6 years, I would ask my breast surgeon (not the surgeon who did the reconstruction) if there was anything that could be done to fix the reconstruction. With a heavy heart, every year he told me no. In 2011, I asked, AGAIN, if there was anything that could be done. This time I heard some good news—he informed me that he was working with a reconstructive surgeon and he thought I should talk with her because she may be able to help me. That was when I was referred to Dr. Spiegel and my whole world changed. She was so warm and caring and informed me that she felt she could redo my reconstruction. In January 2012, Dr. Spiegel took me into surgery and I came out of the surgery a new woman. After the reconstructive surgeries were complete, not only did I have a breast that felt real, it looked real. I was so excited that I actually could not wait to have the nipple made. I have found that since the surgery, I stand up straighter and my clothes fit better. I tell everyone I know that I have the most incredible doctor that made me feel like a woman again. I am proud to share my story with anyone who asks. Dr. Spiegel is a true angel and I am so glad that I met her.

Lois G.

Phebe’s Story

My journey began long before my procedure. I was at a conference listening to Drs. Baker and Spiegel talk about surgical options for women with breast cancer and those at high risk for breast cancer.

I am a Radiologist with interest in Women’s Imaging. My job includes interpreting mammograms and breast ultrasounds and performing diagnostic procedures in women with suspicious breast findings. My mother had radical mastectomy at age 37; my husband’s mother died of breast cancer at age 59 and has other family members with breast cancer. Like many women, I have dense breasts and having my yearly screening mammograms have been not only anxiety provoking, but often leading to additional tests and even once, a stereotactic biopsy. At the Breast Cancer Prevention Clinic, my calculated risk for developing cancer at age 50 was 1 in 4 and was advised to get yearly MRI’s alternating with mammograms every 6 months. Needless to say, despite my passion for helping women diagnose breast cancer early and helping them navigate through treatment once the diagnosis has been made, I myself was a nervous wreck, convinced it was a matter of time before I myself develop breast cancer. What will the implications be for me and for my 2 young daughters if that happens?

As I sat listening to Drs. Baker and Spiegel talk and looking at the pictures of women who had breast reconstruction procedures, I thought to myself – “Why not consider bilateral prophylactic mastectomy?” I pondered on that idea for 2 years, doing my research and eventually, visiting with each surgeon and presenting my story and asking for their advice. I discussed my thoughts with my family, and worried if I was overreacting and putting myself at risk for unnecessary surgical complications.

2 years ago, at age 50, I finally decided it was time. I had lengthy preoperative counseling and workups but finally I was cleared for surgery Easter weekend. Even though I had made up my mind, I worried about the lengthy nine-hour procedure, the postoperative recovery, and the mental anguish I was putting my family through. As surgery day got closer, I became more doubtful of my decision. But thanks to Drs. Baker and Spiegel and their staff and the staff at Methodist, everything went well. It helped that I had talked to other women who went through it as well and I have zero regrets.

Since my DIEP flap surgery, I have had a second procedure to have implants put in. The results have been incredible. My breast pain is gone. I no longer live in fear of getting breast cancer and am very pleased with the implants – though I was dead set against them in the beginning. My husband, who would love me no matter what, is also quite pleased with the results!

Even though the pathology did not show breast cancer, I consider myself a breast cancer survivor. I am fortunate to have learned about my options and chose one that has been a positive life change. I hope that by sharing my story with others, someone else can learn about their options and have their own life changing experience.

Phebe C.

Phyllis’s Story

I was probably Dr. Spiegel’s most reluctant, prospective patient. My husband and daughter were conspiring behind my back for me to have reconstructive surgery. After much research on their part, they felt Dr. Spiegel was THE one I should see. My daughter made the appointment and they literally dragged me to Dr. Spiegel’s office. My mindset was “been there, done that.”

You see, being 66 years old, I had resigned myself to my situation. My mastectomy and reconstructive surgery were 27 years ago. I also had extensive radiation and chemo prior to my reconstructive surgery and in the last several years my reconstructed implant had become severely encapsulated. I had seen at least two male plastic surgeons about reconstructive surgery in the past, but I came away from these appointments with the feeling that they just didn’t understand and they did not really want to deal with cleaning up an encapsulation. They seemed to be more interested in the cosmetic part instead of the correction of my encapsulation. That was fine, but I needed more. With Dr. Spiegel being a woman, I hoped this appointment would be different. I was not disappointed.

Upon meeting Dr. Spiegel and listening to her explain the procedure, I was very impressed. She told me, “Phyllis, I can fix this. I can remove the encapsulation and reconstruct your breast with, hopefully, some feeling”. “I can do this”. Wow! For the first time, I felt both relieved and excited that someone finally understood and could do this for me! She was very compassionate and reassured me that “it’s a journey, “ there is light at the end of the tunnel” and that “we are going to get there.”

My journey is complete now. Dr. Spiegel and her medical staff have been wonderful throughout every step and have become almost like family to me Thanks to Dr. Spiegel’s excellent surgical skills, I have feeling in my reconstructed breast (after 27 years) and it looks and feels beautiful!!! I no longer have to worry about being lopsided or dealing with a prosthesis or how my clothes fit. The results are amazing and I feel so much better about myself. My husband, kids, and grandkids are all excited because “Mimi” is going to float the river this summer at our annual family vacation and get in the hot springs when we all go skiing next year! These are just some of the things I haven’t been able to do in recent years. In fact that was one of the main topics of discussion when all four of our kids and their spouses plus ten grandchildren were staying with us for four days during Christmas!

I feel more confident and beautiful now. I am truly blessed to be cancer free for 27 years and for meeting Dr. Spiegel. My only regret is I didn’t meet her sooner. As the song says, ‘I feel like a woman”….again.

Thank you, Dr. Spiegel! And thank you to my husband and daughter!

Phyllis S.

Suanna’s Story

January 3, 2013

Learning that I had breast cancer was not something that I had anticipated in my life, but was something that I had greatly feared. So, when I received the cancer diagnosis, it was a great comfort to me to immediately have the benefit of an incredible team of physicians at Methodist Hospital. I was able to see Dr. Spiegel the day of my diagnosis, and she was quite a reassuring presence. Her office atmosphere is one of calm and feminine emphasis, and, subconsciously, that was important to me. Throughout my relationship with Dr. Spiegel, I have felt her concern for my sense of well-being. As she is a woman, I am confident that she understands the strong desire of her patients to not only be restored to health, but also to be restored to feminine wholeness.

The interval between my diagnosis and the final plan of treatment and the uncertainty that I dealt with during that time was the most difficult period of my journey. Dr. Spiegel was quite supportive during this time as were the other people in her office. This was meaningful to me because my struggle during this time was an emotionally charged one, and it was quite important for me to know that Dr. Spiegel and her office staff knew that and cared.

There were two decisions I made regarding my treatment plan, and Dr. Spiegel carefully explained the details of each. First, I decided to have a bilateral mastectomy. That would remove the concern of having cancer in the other breast, and it seemed to me that it might make the reconstruction easier. Secondly, I opted for implants in order to shorten the recovery time for that surgery. Dr. Spiegel supported me in these decisions and helped me understand what would be occurring each step of the way.

Today, after almost two years, I can happily say that I am better than new. Dr. Spiegel is an artist, and I am thankful that she has chosen to express her art by restoring women’s sense of femininity and beauty.

Written with joy,

Suanna D.

Sylvie’s Story

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2010 when I was 43 years old. Nobody in my family has had breast cancer, and I never thought I would get breast cancer. I was really shocked and scared when I got the diagnosis. The surgeon that I talked to said that because I had small breasts, he recommended that I have a mastectomy. At that time I didn’t know whether I was going to have radiation and/or chemotherapy. I just couldn’t think of anything beyond the mastectomy. Because I didn’t want to go through the same experience again, I decided to have bilateral mastectomy even though I only had cancer in my right breast.

I had my mastectomy in March 2010 (not at the Methodist Hospital). I was so traumatized with my surgery experience that I decided not to have any more surgeries. Soon after my mastectomy, I was feeling really depressed. I felt that something was taken away from me. I couldn’t look at myself in the mirror before or after a shower. I was feeling unhappy, and I lost interest in doing the things I enjoyed, like gardening and going to the gym.

In May 2010, I made my first appointment with Dr. Spiegel to find out what my options were if I decided to have reconstructive surgery. Dr. Spiegel and her staff were so caring that I felt comfortable talking with them. Dr. Spiegel listened to my concerns and took them seriously.

When I met Dr. Spiegel for the first time, I only weighed 105 lb. I was really thin, and I didn’t have any “spare parts” to use for reconstructive surgery. Tissue expanders were not an option because the skin on the mastectomy site was so thin and tight. To be able to have the DIEP surgery I would have to ‘grow fat’ and have some flexibility in my tummy. My only option at that time was latissimus flap. But I was not keen on having the latissimus flap surgery because I didn’t want to lose any muscle strength on my back.

In August 2012 I met Dr. Spiegel for the second time. At that time I had gained 7 lbs. and had “grown” some fat on my tummy. She told me to gain some more weight and come back in October. By October I had gained 15 lbs. in total and that was when Dr. Spiegel said with confidence that the DIEP surgery could be done.

I had my DIEP surgery in February 2011 and the nipples/symmetry surgery in November 2011. I was so pleased with the results that I don’t mind showing them to breast cancer patients who are considering reconstructive surgery. Not only do I feel good and confident again, but I also have my feeling back in my reconstructed breasts. I feel happy and enjoy life again for the first time since my breast cancer diagnosis. Dr. Spiegel truly is an excellent and caring plastic surgeon and she has really changed my life.

Sylvie Y.

Debra’s Story

I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2008. Of course it was the most frightening thing I could have ever imagined having to face. I am known for being a very strong woman, but once I was given the diagnosis, it immediately and unexpectedly knocked me off of my feet. However, the first thing that I knew to do, as I had been taught by my precious mother was to pray, and ask God to touch me with his healing powers, and to send me the right physician, who could take care of me, and make me whole again.

After additional testing, I was scheduled for surgery by April of that year. No chemo was required, and I only had to go through eight weeks of radiation. This time I dodged a serious bullet, and I felt very fortunate to know that my situation could be handled fairly simply, with no major discomforts. I was scheduled off of work for about four weeks after my surgery. The next step was radiation treatment. I was fortunate to be able to schedule my treatments early in the morning, before arriving on the job. Only a handful of people ever knew I was going through the process. I went through it like a champ!

Fast forward, to November, 2010, I had just completed another routine, follow-up checkup, and was notified by my doctor that there was a recurrence of the cancer in my right breast. Thankfully, it had not spread from the right breast area, but this time it was recommended that I have a double mastectomy, even though the left breast had no evidence of the disease. I was frightened to think that now I would be completely disfigured due to the pending mastectomy; however, I was blessed to be referred to the most talented reconstructive surgeon in the field, Dr. Aldona Spiegel. Dr. Spiegel and her entire staff were the true blessings that guided me through this process. They were my earthly angels assigned to guide, direct and assure me that I would be just fine.

My first meeting with Dr. Spiegel and her staff created within me a total sense of peace, and confidence that I was in good hands. They explained the entire process to me, providing visuals, and a complete and comprehensive website of the entire reconstructive process. It made me confident that other women, who had gone through this process, survived and were able to move forward, and heal, and experience complete restoration.

As they visually prepared me, they also verbally walked me through the reconstructive surgery, and told me how to prepare myself and what to expect as I walked through this tedious journey. I felt very comfortable with her nurse who answered my questions with a special kindness and warmth that also made me feel comfortable about asking any questions necessary to gain clarity and insight into the surgery that I would soon be facing.

I have to say, without a doubt that somehow I knew that this too shall pass, once I walked into her office, and was taken care of by her caring, and professional staff. I was certain, and assured that I would be victorious once again. I never experienced any depression concerning my journey or feelings of “woe is me”. I just felt truly blessed to know that I had been blessed with a special earthly angel named Dr. Aldona Spiegel, the reconstructive surgeon with the gifted, anointed hands.

With my journey behind me I have been able to return to my complete exercise regimen, work as a community college adjunct professor, and enjoy life with my family and friends. I truly feel blessed to have Dr. Spiegel and her wonderful staff as the earthly angels who brought me through my journey.

Debra V.

Melonee’s Story

From Breast Cancer and back…my personal journey

As I sit here thinking back on the last 18 months of my life a wide array of emotions flood over me; fear, anger, depression to relief, happiness and gratitude. It all seems surreal to me now.

I was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer in November, 2011. Fear immediately set in. As this was the 2nd time I heard the words “you have breast cancer”. 15 years ago, at age 35, I was first told I had breast cancer. Now at age 50, hearing these words again I was overcome with anger. How could this be happening to me again? I was devastated. I could not believe this was happening. As upset and angry as I was, I was equally worried about my family. My husband and two daughters had been by my side during my first ordeal and now I was going to put them through it all again. Depression soon set in and I just did not want to deal with it. I wanted to crawl in bed and pull the covers over my head. But my family pulled me out and made me deal with the cancer.

I have been married to my wonderful husband, Ron, for 25 years and we have 2 beautiful daughters; Natalia 24 and Modie 19. I am so blessed to have a wonderful family and their support has proven invaluable to my recoveries. They were by my side every step of the way.

Now with my family by my side, I began an 8 month journey of survival. It started with a lumpectomy. My oncologist, Dr. Frankie Holmes, insisted I have a lumpectomy immediately because of the aggressive type of my cancer (triple negative). She felt my tumor had to be removed before I began my chemotherapy treatment.

Three weeks after my lumpectomy, I began 4 months of chemotherapy. The first treatment was not too bad. I remember thinking “what is all the fuss about chemo”. Then within the first couple of weeks, my hair began falling out. I did not realize how vain I would be watching my hair fall out. I decided I could not watch it fall out slowly so I asked my daughter to shave it all off. This was very traumatic and I was depressed for days. Before I began Chemo treatments my daughters took me to a wig shop and we spent the afternoon trying on wigs. We had so much fun and I purchased a couple of wigs. I really did not think I would wear a wig but when my hair was gone, I was so thankful I had them. I wore one almost every day for the next 6 months. I highly suggest everyone get a wig. It does wonders for your self-esteem.

Now with the chemo treatments finished, I had to prepare for my double mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. I met with Dr. Spiegel when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer. I felt immediately comfortable with her and her ability; I knew I was in the right place for my surgery. She and her staff explained all my options and together we decide the DIEP flap surgery would be best for me. I was nervous, scared and excited all at the same time.

My surgery lasted over 13 hours. I was in ICU the first night and stayed in the hospital for another 3 days. I was in a great deal of pain the first few days. Getting out of bed the first time was very difficult. I could not use my stomach muscles. Until you do not have use of your stomach muscles, you really do not realize how much you use them. I felt helpless for several days. Just doing simple things; like going to the bathroom or getting out of a chair, were difficult. My husband was my hero, he rented a “lift chair” for me to use for a couple of weeks. Having this chair really helped with my recovery. My oldest daughter, Natalia, was invaluable to my recovery. She took a “leave of absence” from her job and stayed with me for several weeks. She was by my side every day. I know having her with me helping me aided in my recovery.

I have never regretted having the double mastectomy with reconstruction. In fact, I am so relieved I had it done. I do not ever have to worry about getting breast cancer again! In addition, I am so happy I now have a brand new set of breasts that I absolutely love. I will forever be grateful to Dr. Spiegel and her staff.

Melonee P.