A Breast Cancer Survivor’s Story During Awareness Month
According to the National Cancer Institute, one in eight women will be diagnosed with female breast cancer at some point during their lifetime, making it the most prevalent cancer among American women. Meet Heather Markovic, a Ventura County employee and remarkable individual whose healthcare journey has been one of hope, resilience, and unwavering gratitude. During October’s Breast Cancer Awareness month, we hope you enjoy insights into Heather’s inspiring medical journey with breast cancer. Her Grateful Patient story is a testament to the exemplary care from our compassionate medical professionals, and how Ventura County WeGive Employee and Retiree donations enabled VCMC to purchase a lymph node seeker that made a profound difference in her life of as a survivor.
“In late 2017 when I was 37 years old I found lumps in my right breast. I had just lost a lot of weight and wasn’t overly concerned, thinking they might have been there a long time, and I just didn’t notice sooner with the extra bulk, but I set an appointment with my doctor just in case. My doctor felt it was best to be 100% sure about the new finds and set up a mammogram. Shortly after my mammogram I went in for a biopsy. On January 3rd, 2018 I got a call confirming I had cancer.”
“In February I had a lumpectomy performed by Dr. Steen at VCMC, using a lymph node seeker. That device was purchased with WeGive donations and allowed him to cut and remove as little as possible, reducing my risk of developing lymphedema in the future, allowing for easier recovery and peace of mind that all cancer had been detected and removed.”
“I am thankful for the care I have received from kind doctors and staff and have confidence in the modern practices and treatments given to me. I consider the day of my lumpectomy to be my cancer-free date and celebrate it every year. Your health is important – take care of yourself mentally and physically, pay attention to changes, advocate for yourself, and enjoy life fully.”
~Heather Markovic – County of Ventura, CEO Fiscal
We are grateful for Heather’s positive outcome and for her willingness to share her inspiring story. October is a month to unite, advocate, and remember. It serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of early detection, the strength of survivors, and the importance of community support in the fight against breast cancer. For more information, or if you would like to support vital medical equipment acquisition at VCMC, please contact Amy Towner:
Am********@ve*****.org
or call 805-652-3361.
*HCFVC was granted permission to share content and photos included in this information piece.
