Testimonials

Michelle Strong

Michelle Strong is exactly as her name implies. In fighting cancer, her strength became evident. After a routine screening mammogram, a diagnostic mammogram, and a biopsy confirmed cancer, Michelle quickly set out to learn about the nature of her disease—HER2-positive breast cancer. Through doctors and her own research, she discovered that HER2-positive breast cancer tends to be more aggressive than other types. “In my mind, time was of the essence. Even a biopsy couldn’t confirm my stage of cancer,” Michelle said.

She discussed treatment options in detail with surgeons at Lansdale Hospital and chose to have a lumpectomy. She also met with a hematologist and a radiologist at High Point Cancer Center, since her treatment would include chemotherapy and radiation.

“Things started moving fast, and because mine could be a fast-growing cancer, I wanted to be sure I was getting the right treatment,” Michelle noted. “I went to Jefferson for a second opinion. I’m such an advocate of second opinions.” In fact, the Jefferson oncologist confirmed Michelle’s treatment plan. “That’s when I decided to stay where I was, in my community,” she added.

Over the next 18 weeks, Michelle received six cycles of chemotherapy and then went to High Point Cancer Center for radiation. “Dr. Mehta answered all of my questions, and the technicians were excellent. Any skepticism I had about radiation was proven unnecessary,” she said. “At first I tried to compare it to the chemotherapy side, where it was necessary to routinely monitor blood counts. The radiation treatments were not as physically draining. It’s a different animal from chemotherapy.””