Meet Cara Coffman: Stage III Breast Cancer Survivor

How did your cancer journey begin?

 During my last pregnancy, around 30 weeks, I discovered a large, hard lump in my left breast. At only 31 years old, both I and my doctors assumed it was pregnancy-related. I visited my OB twice, but I was reassured that it was normal. After my baby was born, the lump continued growing and became painful. I also found a swollen area under my arm, and I knew something was wrong. I pushed for a mammogram and ultrasound despite being younger than the recommended screening age and having no health insurance. Those tests ultimately led to my diagnosis of Stage III, Grade III invasive ductal carcinoma that had already spread to my lymph nodes.

What treatment did you receive?

Because my cancer was Stage III, I began with six rounds of TCHP chemotherapy, followed by immunotherapy. I then underwent a double mastectomy with reconstruction. After surgery, my pathology showed a complete response to treatment with no remaining cancer cells. After discussing the risks and benefits with my medical team, I chose not to undergo radiation and have continued immunotherapy.

Why is self-advocacy so important?

 If I had accepted the reassurance that everything was pregnancy-related, my cancer could have continued growing unchecked. I always encourage others to trust their instincts and advocate for themselves. You know your body better than anyone else.

How has cancer affected your mental health?

The emotional battle has been the hardest part of my journey. At first I was overwhelmed by fear, grief, and the question of 'Why me?' As a Christian, I wrestled with my faith before deciding that cancer would not define me. Changing my mindset and choosing hope became one of the most important parts of my recovery.

What was the hardest part of treatment?

Losing my hair was one of the most difficult experiences emotionally. It changed how I saw myself, and even now during regrowth I'm learning to embrace a new version of myself. Cancer took many things from me, but I refuse to let it steal my joy.

How did being a young mother influence your journey?

As a mother of five young children, I knew they were watching how I handled this challenge. I wanted them to see someone who fought with courage and hope rather than giving up. We celebrated every milestone together, including finishing chemotherapy and hearing I was cancer-free.

How did cancer affect your relationships?

Cancer showed me who would truly stand beside me. My husband became my greatest source of support, and my family and friends carried me through treatment. I also learned that it's okay to accept help and lean on the people who love you.

What advice would you give someone newly diagnosed?

A cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. Find your reason to fight, rely on your support system, and take everything one day at a time. There is still hope, and you are stronger than you realize.

How did you balance work and treatment?

I chose not to let cancer take away the work I loved. I continued serving as a pastor and worship leader whenever I was physically able. Some days were difficult, but focusing on what mattered most gave me purpose throughout treatment.

What do you want others to know about life beyond cancer?

Cancer changes you forever, but it doesn't mean life ends. Even after becoming cancer-free, survivors continue healing physically and emotionally. Continue showing up for the people in your life who have had cancer, because recovery doesn't end the day treatment ends.

What final message would you like readers to remember?

Cancer is part of my story, but it is not my identity. Choose hope, keep fighting, lean on the people who love you, and never let cancer steal your joy.

Photo Credits to Cara Coffman