For close to a decade, Amanda (Mandy) Mushrush has helped to communicate healthcare information through her work as a senior graphic artist for Aultman Health System. She recently found herself on the other side of the patient experience and shared this piece with the Aultman blog, which focuses on her diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer.

On March 29, 2023 (my son’s 16th birthday), I received the life-altering news that I had breast cancer. At the age of 44 with no family history and in complete health, I was blindsided. A few weeks prior, I had my routine mammogram at the Aultman Breast Care Center, which showed a few suspicious calcifications that were not present the year prior. I was called back the very next morning and asked to return for more images. From there, it was determined that I needed to have a stereotactic biopsy (mammogram-guided). It was intimidating, but I was grateful for a room full of supportive and communicative professional women.

The biopsy confirmed I had ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which means it was caught early! My cancer was contained within the ducts, where it had originated. Things moved very quickly from here. I was assigned to Erin Meek, a patient care specialist who serves as a nurse navigator with the Aultman Cancer Center. She was a blessing. Upon getting this scary news, I was overwhelmed and could only absorb so much. She took charge by making all my appointments and phone calls and then following up with me after each visit.

Here’s the ironic part: I’m an Aultman employee. I’m a graphic designer in the Media Department, directly below the Breast Care Center. I look up from my office every day to their windows and have designed the literature for their department and physicians for the past eight years. I was now the patient. I was so impressed by the Breast Care Center – they are a well-oiled machine. My husband and I met with Dr. Sabrina Shilad in a private room, where she slowly walked us through the diagnosis and treatment plan (hand-drawn pictures and all). Outside was a line of women from several departments, who patiently waited to speak with us, each so very compassionate.

After more testing, DCIS was found in both sides, and it was decided that I needed to have a double mastectomy. On May 24, 2023, I had surgery at Aultman – “my home.” It’s difficult to put into words, but the familiarity of the surroundings and faces brought me so much comfort. Dr. Shilad and Dr. Shayda Mirhaidari performed the procedure. As I was being administered anesthesia in the OR, each stood at my side and held my hand until I was out. Reconstruction surgery took place four weeks later on June 26.

I’m grateful for early screening and fast-paced treatment – both likely saved my life. This strategy also prevented me from having to undergo any further treatment. My life may have taken a detour over this past summer, but the journey sure has brought so many new positives.