Expert Breast Cancer Treatment is Right Here
The Story of Donna Bosco
A Journey of Hope and Healing at Singing River Cancer Center
In February 2023, Donna Bosco, a registered nurse and the wife of a long-time OB-GYN, discovered a lump in her left breast. With their combined medical experience, Donna and her husband recognized the seriousness of the situation.
“We knew it was something that couldn’t wait,” Donna recalls. “We needed answers fast.”
Donna underwent an ultrasound and diagnostic mammogram at Singing River Health System’s Pascagoula Hospital where their fears were confirmed. A large, suspicious mass had been detected. Within three days, General Surgeon and Breast Specialist, Dr. John Bailey, performed a biopsy. The results were devastating—Donna had triple-positive breast cancer, an aggressive and complex form of the disease.
“Even with my medical background, nothing truly prepares you to hear, ‘You have cancer.’ But from that moment on, Dr. Bailey and his team took charge. I knew I was in the best hands.”
Despite the overwhelming diagnosis, Donna chose to remain close to home for her treatment. The familiarity and expertise of the providers at Singing River Cancer Center were crucial as she faced this battle. Under the care of Dr. Techksell Washington, an experienced breast cancer oncologist, Donna underwent initial labs, an echocardiogram, x-rays, and had a port placed to begin her treatment.
In March 2023, Donna began chemotherapy and radiation, aimed at targeting the HER2-positive tumor, a type known for its rapid growth. Fortunately, targeted therapies like Herceptin have dramatically improved outcomes for women like Donna with this type of breast cancer.
Targeted Immune Therapy for Breast Cancer
HER2+ breast cancer cells have too many HER2 receptors, which send signals to grow and divide too rapidly, causing tumors to form. HER2 receptor-targeted therapy such as medications like Herceptin and Perjeta attach to HER2 receptors, interrupting the signal that tells the cancer cells to grow and divide.
For patients with early-stage breast cancer, adding HER2 receptor-targeted therapy to chemotherapy after surgery may reduce the risk of cancer returning by about 50%.
During surgery to remove the tumor and affected lymph nodes, Donna’s journey took another unexpected turn. Dr. Bailey discovered a much smaller, second type of tumor. Despite the additional challenge, Donna was advised to continue with her treatment as planned.
“It was a really overwhelming experience,” Donna recalls. “But through it all, the care team, especially the radiation therapists, helped me feel at ease. Their compassion motivated me to keep going, even on the toughest days.”
By April 2024, Donna completed her chemotherapy and radiation. Two months later, Donna’s mammogram came back clear, showing no signs of cancer. Joined by Dr. Washington and her husband, Donna rang the bell at Singing River Cancer Center in Pascagoula, marking the triumphant end of her treatment.
“As I reflect on my journey, I am forever grateful for the care and compassion I received at Singing River Cancer Center,” Donna said. “They gave me hope to keep pushing forward when I needed it the most.”
Affordable Breast Cancer Screenings are Right Here at Singing River
1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer. Mammograms are a type of x-ray that helps catch tumors at their earliest, most treatable stages. When caught early, the 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99%. Singing River pairs the latest 3D mammography techniques with enhanced risk assessments to help determine each patient’s risk of cancer and screening needs.
Singing River is proud to offer 3D mammograms with our enhanced risk assessment from Volpara starting September 1, 2024 for just $129—no insurance required.
When it’s time to schedule your mammogram, talk to your doctor about having a 3D Mammogram at any of our Singing River Imaging Centers. Then, call us to schedule your appointment.