Survivor : Shaunna L. Browne, 53, North Woodstock. .

Diagnosis : I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in February of 2024. . My journey and its impact : My breast cancer journey began when I went for my annual mammogram at CMC Breast Care Center in Bedford in November 2023.

On Nov. 15, I received the ominous letter informing me there was an issue detected that would require additional screening. After some insurance issues, I was finally scheduled for an ultrasound and a biopsy shortly thereafter.

In February 2024, the results came back as positive for IDC (invasive ductal carcinoma. I was scheduled almost immediately to meet with Dr. Jessica Ryan and Keyla Gervais, PAC, who took the time to explain my diagnosis, my options and a treatment plan.

I was provided with a binder that offered so much information about not only my diagnosis, but detailed information about each step of the process, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and numerous articles and insight as to what steps or products I could take to minimize all of the various side effects which come with each step of the process. Both Dr. Ryan and Keyla took the time to go through the binder with me and answer each of my questions.

Dr. Ryan was very proactive in making sure that I received any test results as quickly as possible, including personally calling me to discuss what the results meant for my treatment plan. I had fully retired only six months prior to my diagnosis.

I am thankful that my diagnos.