Breast cancer isn't just a statistic. There are names, faces and stories attached to each diagnosis. It's someone's wife, mother, aunt, sister or friend. And it deeply affects the family members, friends and co-workers who love and support them.
North East ISD employees are strong in the face of many challenges. This is one of a series of articles this month that will highlight a few of NEISD's own through their journey with breast cancer. Their stories are filled with hope and courage.
"I'm a survivor now and I'm trying hard to be a thriver."
Being diagnosed with cancer is difficult under any circumstance, but imagine hearing you have breast cancer as the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Katherine Perry was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer on March 1, 2020, at the age of 29. The Jackson Middle School teacher says the news was a shock to everyone, even her doctors.
"We weren't even looking for breast cancer," said Perry. "Three different medical professionals told me there was no way it was cancer and that cancer was at the bottom of their list. But when my doctor called me on that Sunday, I knew. Doctors don't call you on Sundays from their personal cell."
Triple negative is one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer. Her doctors fast tracked treatment, and Katherine began chemotherapy during the midst of a global pandemic.
Unfortunately, that meant friends and family couldn't accompany her during 16 rounds of chemotherapy.
"I had to go to all my appointments alone," said Perry. "Every five-hour chemo session, alone. Every other scan, alone."
Despite incredible challenges, intense side effects and tough days, Katherine's dedication to her students never wavered. She brought her laptop to her chemo sessions so she could continue teaching virtually. Perry completed chemotherapy and underwent a successful mastectomy a few weeks later.
"The mastectomy pathology report showed I had a complete pathological response to chemo," said Perry. "The tumor was dead. I was now 'cancer free.'"
While Perry is thankful for the good news, her treatment isn't over. She'll undergo additional treatments in the coming months as a precaution. Katherine is the definition of a fighter and will continue to thrive with the love and support of her family, friends and support team at Jackson Middle School.
For more information on breast cancer awareness and research, visit cancer.org.
