Patient detects breast cancer early by performing a self-exam

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Katrina Lambert had always been proactive about her health. She knew the importance of regular self-examinations, which is how she first discovered a lump in her breast. With a family history, she immediately sought medical advice, knowing that early detection was key. After a mammogram and biopsy, her fears were confirmed — it was stage one breast cancer.

“When anybody receives a cancer diagnosis, there is just an inherent sense of insidiousness to it that you just don't know what's going to happen, what is this going look like, what does this mean in terms of my ability to continue to love the people I love,” Lambert said.

Halley Vora, MD, director of breast health services at Loma Linda University Health, oversees Lambert’s care and address any concerns Lambert and her family has. From the first consultation, it was clear that Lambert was determined to beat her diagnosis. “Katrina came in with a very positive attitude and a clear plan of action,” Vora said. “She knew the value of early intervention and was ready to tackle the treatment process.”

Lambert’s treatment plan involved a lumpectomy, a surgery that would remove the tumor but preserve the rest of her breast tissue. The decision for a lumpectomy, rather than a mastectomy, was based on the stage of her cancer and the tumor’s size. For Lambert, it was an important choice — she wanted to minimize the impact on her body while still aggressively treating the cancer.

“I felt an absence of fear,” Lambert said. “My husband alluded to our faith and knowing people were praying for us played a huge part. Dr. Vora put it all out there for us, then wrapped her arms around us through the process.”

Throughout the process, her husband, Richard, was by her side, just as she had been for him. His experience with multiple forms of cancer helped him understand what Lambert was going through, and his support became a vital part of her emotional and mental resilience.

For Vora, the bond between Lambert and Richard was evident. “You could see that they were supporting each other through this,” she said. “Richard’s experience with cancer gave him a unique perspective, and Katrina leaned on him in a way that helped her stay focused and positive.”

Lambert’s surgery was successful, and soon she was on the road to recovery. She continued to receive follow-up care and consultations to ensure the cancer remained at bay, and through it all, Richard remained a steady presence.

“I am grateful for my cancer, in many ways,” Lambert said. “Cancer levels the playing field and we really are all in this together. No one comes into this life or leaves unscathed. It helped realign some of my focus to learn how to discern the difference between things that are important rather than things that are urgent.”

Her journey through breast cancer reinforced Lambert’s belief in early detection and the power of a strong support system. For more information on breast health services, explore Breast Cancer Care at Loma Linda University Health or request a breast cancer screening for you or a loved one today.