From Diagnosis to Triumph: A Hospital CEO's Inspiring Journey Through Breast Cancer

By Gena Bravo, President and CEO, Dignity Health Woodland Memorial Hospital

According to Susan G Komen, in 2023, more than 32,020 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer in California alone. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – a time to educate people about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. As we wrap up the month, I wanted to share how this awareness month took on a different meaning for me in April of 2021 and share the importance of continuing to have conversations about prevention all year long.

While getting ready for an anniversary dinner with my husband, I noticed my left shoulder felt abnormally swollen. A week later, after being screened by my doctor, I heard the devastating words: “you have breast cancer.”

My period of grief and acceptance was difficult. Like many women, I put off my screening. As someone in the medical field, I thought that somehow, I might be immune, or because I was so aware of the signs and symptoms, I would know far before a diagnosis.

Whether it is for a family member, a friend, or yourself, October serves as an essential reminder for women to watch for potential signs and symptoms. Any woman can be diagnosed with breast cancer, and any person can be impacted by it. According to the American Cancer Society 1 , women ages 45-50 should get yearly mammograms, and as I learned, they are critical. As a working mother, I know it is challenging for some women to prioritize themselves, but taking 45 minutes to get screened can save your life. As a healthcare professional, I also know many women avoid screenings because they fear a possible diagnosis. However, innovative solutions for treatment have come so far, and there are more options for women now than ever before.

What I want our community to know is that a breast cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence, but ignoring your health may ultimately hinder the options to help you on your path to recovery. Self-examinations are another great way to monitor your health and should be done frequently and thoroughly. It’s important to remember that symptoms do not necessarily need to be painful to be cause for concern. I caught it because the swelling in my shoulder felt off. Women should be on the lookout for lumps, swelling, irritation, pain, and flaky skin in any area near the breast. It is very important for women to listen to their bodies and be mindful of changes. If something does not feel right, listen to your gut, and get examined by a doctor. I know firsthand that receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can feel isolating. But one thing this journey has taught me is that we are not alone. Hospital nurse navigators are experts at guiding you through the process, answering questions, providing information, and supporting you every step of the way. Beyond support through your provider, there is an incredible and inspiring network of breast cancer survivors in every community. The sisterhood is a strong and welcoming one. Throughout this journey, I have learned the human body can endure much more than we thought possible, and I am more capable of overcoming challenges than I ever thought I could. I want to let every woman know how capable she is. I understand that making time for a breast cancer screening could be challenging or the thought of it could be frightening, but taking that step to have that single check-up can save a life. And if you or someone you know does receive a breast cancer diagnosis, my biggest advice would be to take things one day at a time and continue living your life to the fullest.

After a year and a half of treatment, I am proud to say that today I am cancer free. It has been quite a journey for me, both personally and professionally. During my treatment, I was appointed President and CEO of Dignity Health Woodland Memorial Hospital. It was truly an honor to be trusted with this role while undergoing treatment at our hospital. I cannot thank our team of physicians and staff members enough for their support and encouragement.

Breast cancer can impact any mother, sister, family, or friend. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I hope every woman takes time to prioritize her own health. I want to be an advocate for women to live their healthiest and fullest lives and in sharing my story, I hope that it changes someone else’s.

For more information, visit the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.