Mercy's Drs. Maria Jacobs and Jennifer Joh Discuss What Follows After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

If you heard the words, "You have breast cancer," what would you do? That diagnosis can be very scary, with lots of feelings and information to sort through.

Over the years, we've profiled many women diagnosed with breast cancer. Back in 2016, we met Terri Lyon.

"It's an emotional roller coaster," Lyon said.

Lyon discussed treatment options with her family and physicians. It's a diagnosis that can be overwhelming.

According to Dr. Jennifer Joh of The Hoffberger Breast Center at Mercy, there can be a lot of information to take in.

"You sort of have to take a step back, take a deep breath and listen to what your provider, your doctor has to say in terms of getting your treatment done," Dr. Joh said.

You can expect to work with a team of doctors. Treatment typically involves more than one procedure. You could undergo a combination of therapy including surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, radiation or just one. Treatment depends upon the stage and type of cancer and the overall health and personal preference of the patient. Lyon chose a double mastectomy.

"My sister had breast cancer when she was younger, in her 40s, and my mother's mother passed away from breast cancer as well. We were just trying to look at all the facts and make a conscious decision," Lyon said.

Mercy offers genetic counseling for breast cancer patients.

"And the reason being is, we have identified genes that are going to predict more or less aggressive behavior of the tumor, so many decisions are going to have to be made based on their genetic make-up," said Dr. Maria Jacobs, Director of Radiation Oncology at Mercy.

Nowadays 85 percent of patients survive breast cancer. Early detection is key. Every woman 40 years of age or older should get a mammogram once a year. As for Lyon, four years after her diagnosis, she's doing fine.

To view the interviews with Mercy radiation oncologist Dr. Maria Jacobs and Mercy breast cancer surgeon Dr. Jennifer Joh regarding a breast cancer diagnosis, click here.