Daily Proton Therapy Treatments for Breast Cancer
In July 2016, 66-year-old Clare visited her doctor to complete her annual mammogram. This time the visit wasn’t so typical: doctors informed her she had stage 1 ductile carcinoma. With no family history of breast cancer, Clare was startled and scared to hear the diagnosis.
After performing a lumpectomy, her oncologist recommended proton therapy at the MD Anderson Proton Therapy Center. With this treatment, Clare was able to prevent unnecessary radiation to her heart, lungs and surrounding organs, resulting in fewer side effects.
Clinical trials for breast cancer treatment
Her radiologist, Dr. Smith, asked Clare to participate in a trial for working patients. This meant coming to the center for one treatment, and then returning for a second in the afternoon. Receiving treatment twice a day, Monday through Friday, for one week, Clare was able to complete her proton therapy treatment rather quickly, “I was able to go back to work after each treatment,” Clare said.
During her treatment, the Proton Therapy Center staff made Clare’s experience more than pleasant. She appreciated the emotional support and kindness from her medical team. “They knew me when I walked in. They were so nice and wonderful,” Clare said.
Today, you can find the native Houstonian enjoying cooking many tasty dishes for her friends and family.
“I was able to go back to work after each treatment."