Breast Cancer and Beautiful Tomorrows: A Continued Story of Resilience and Encouragement

By Miranda Marx, Senior Executive Recruiter

The Importance of Recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month

At TeamHealth, we recognize the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a vital opportunity to support the health and well-being of our team members and the communities we serve. By raising awareness around early detection and providing resources for those affected, we strive to foster a culture of education, compassion, and support. In doing so, we reaffirm our commitment to making a positive impact, both within our organization and across the healthcare industry, as we stand together in the fight against cancer.

Last October, Miranda Marx, Senior Executive Recruiter, detailed her breast cancer diagnosis with us. In just a few short months, her life changed drastically. On March 5, she had a mammogram which came out clear. However, she found a lump (tumor) by self-examination on July 1. She was diagnosed with Invasive Mammary Carcinoma, Triple Positive, Stage 1 six days later.

Today, she shares news about her journey to beat cancer while also encouraging others who are fighting.

My Journey Battling Breast Cancer

I am so thankful we have set aside October to acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is a time for us to raise our voices and bring awareness to this disease. The numbers are astounding and continue to rise. It's vital to speak up for your body! Go get your yearly mammograms, but also know your body.

Since my last update, I have completed eight rounds of two chemotherapies and two immunotherapies (TCHP), a partial mastectomy, 20 rounds of radiation, 10 rounds of chemotherapy and an immunotherapy combination called Kadcyla. I am grateful to report that as of today, I am CANCER FREE!

Conquering the Biggest Battle of My Life

When I was diagnosed, I could not verbally get out the words "I have cancer" without breaking down. It was an acknowledgment that I was sick. However, I didn't feel sick. I also didn't want to be sick, but I was. Now, I get to say "I am cancer free". I can't quite explain the feelings behind saying these words. Am I happy, blessed, grateful, thankful, humbled and relieved? Absolutely. However, I am also hesitant, scared, sorry and careful not to "brag". I am hesitant to say it out loud because is it actually true? I am scared this will be short-lived and it will return. I am grieved and sorry for everyone who can't say those words yet or ever. I am careful not to boast that I won the biggest fight of my life. In all things, I want to remain humble and make sure everyone knows that I couldn't have accomplished any of it without my faith.

Showing Up and Showing Support for Others

I've been given the opportunity to help women in my community who are battling cancer in the infusion center at Hendricks Regional Hospital. I am so honored to do this. My nurses have all become my friends. We laugh. We cry. We celebrate. We mourn. It grieves my heart as I hold the hand of a new patient. I remember so vividly that crippling fear. But I know the comfort of a gentle hand. I also know the celebration of survivorship. No one should be alone in this fight. We can accomplish more, together.

Finding Joy in Life's Uncertainties

I get asked a lot, "Miranda, what do you want people to know most?" In short, here it is- my mind was completely blurred for weeks, even months after my diagnosis. Some days it still is. However, the one thought never blurred and always steady is "God, show me and use me". I never questioned the "why". Why me? Why has this happened? What did I do to deserve this? The real question is why not me? Nothing makes us exempt. I wanted to see the beauty in this journey set before me. This happened to me for a reason. The reality is none of us are promised a tomorrow. Life is a gift, and I have been given so many tomorrows. I am grateful for each one. We don't have much control over what happens in our lives; but what we can control is what we do with those tomorrows. How will you live yours? Please choose joy. Choose to focus on the beauty of the everyday little things. Choose to believe that in the end, it all has a purpose. You have a purpose.

The most important thing to remember is, you are not alone. "The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him." (Nahum 1:7)

We Can Make a Difference, Together

We at TeamHealth are deeply inspired by Miranda and her courage in sharing her breast cancer journey. Her story reminds us of the importance of early detection, support, and resilience in the face of life's challenges. As we continue to raise awareness and stand together, we are committed to supporting not only our team but the larger community in the fight against cancer. Together, we can make a difference-one story, one step, and one act of support at a time.

Support someone who is fighting their battle and the search for a cure by joining a race or walk with Susan G. Komen!

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