When Mary Ann Monzani got the call in April that her mammogram showed an apparent invasive mass, like many patients, she was scared.
“When I first learned about it and was waiting for the information, I had sleepless nights and I was so worried,” said Mary Ann.
Mary Ann ended up being diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer, meaning it was in both breasts. Bilateral breast cancer is very rare, accounting for less than 11 percent of all breast cancer patients.
After lumpectomies in both breasts, Mary Ann started whole breast radiation treatment at the AdventHealth Parker Cancer Center.
“The more information I got, the better I felt, and the more I understood the community I was blessed to be surrounded by, including my friends, family, and the Cancer Center team,” said Mary Ann. “I never felt alone, from the moment I was diagnosed.”
As Mary Ann began her radiation treatment, she looked forward to seeing the familiar faces at the AdventHealth Parker Cancer Center.
“The Cancer Center is a key piece for healing. It was the hub for me to connect to other people for support and help. It’s something I’m proud and happy to be a part of,” said Mary Ann.
After months of treatment, on Monday, October 7, Mary Ann celebrated her last round of radiation. Mary Ann rang the bell signifying the end of treatment while surrounded by those who have supported her throughout her journey.
Mary Ann says she is so grateful for her amazing team which includes surgeon Christine Rogness, MD; oncologist Nadine Mikhaeel, MD; radiation oncologist Andrew Tanner, MD; plastic surgeon Richard Mouchantat, MD; nurse navigator Reneé Herman; and Cancer Center nurse Whitney Weems.
“It’s one of my favorite parts of the job, getting to see patients accomplish their treatment,” said Whitney. “Mary Ann went through a lot both physically and emotionally with treatment, so to see her ring the bell was special for the whole team.”
As Mary Ann reflects on her cancer journey, she says she’s realized there is a silver lining to being diagnosed with cancer.
“Nobody wants cancer, but there are a lot of things in life we go through that are hard, and then we look back and realize it made us who we are today. For me, breast cancer is no different,” said Mary Ann. “It has given me a whole new perspective on life. I used to be that person who never paid attention to the world around me. Now, I am truly living in the moment, and really appreciating things. I finally feel like I am living my best life.”
While Mary Ann looks forward to the next chapter, one thing she will miss is seeing the AdventHealth Parker Cancer Center team.
“I’m going to be sad not seeing this amazing care team. They’re like family to me and really helped me get through it all. They gave me hope and assurance that I don’t think I could get anywhere else,” said Mary Ann. “I’m going to miss them, but I will never forget them.”
