In the face of adversity, breast cancer surivior Ashley Bell emerged not only as a survivor but as a beacon of strength, hope, and advocacy for those navigating the treacherous waters of metastatic breast cancer.
Diagnosed with HER2+ ER- PR- metastatic invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer April 2021, Bell’s life took an unexpected turn that would challenge her physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Bell initially discovered a lump two years prior, but was dismissed by doctors who believed she was too young to worry about cancer.
Undeterred, Bell persisted with the lump for an entire year, as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, limiting access to healthcare. Tragically, what began as an oversight evolved into metastatic breast cancer.
A Shocking Diagnosis and Solitary Reflection
At the time of her diagnosis, Bell was just 34 years old. With no prior family history of cancer, she found herself grappling with a diagnosis that would alter the course of her life forever.
“I was shocked to say the least. I didn’t know how to feel because I was by myself, I’m single, I don’t have any children — so in that moment I just felt my life flash before my eyes,” Bell shares adding that she felt like her chance of getting married and having kids were slipping away.
In the subsequent months, Bell sought treatment at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center undergoing tests to understand the nature of her breast cancer.
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“We did all these tests to figure out why…nobody could understand why because I had no symptoms,” Bell, who refers to herself as a unicorn adds.
Despite not carrying the BRCA gene and lacking a family history of cancer, she was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, a subtype that posed its own set of challenges.
Navigating Treatment and Unforeseen Complications
Embarking on chemotherapy in May 2021, Bell faced eight grueling rounds of chemotherapy treatment. The treatment took a toll on her body, causing various side effects and challenges.
The following month, Bell started 30 rounds of radiation therapy, intending to target the cancer in her breast.
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Unfortunately, all of her progress came to an immediate halt when she had to undergo emergency surgery and MRI.
A subsequent craniotomy and stereotactic radiation followed in September, unleashing a cascade of complications that tested Bell’s resilience.
“I thought that my little body was set to return back to business as usual once I finished but NOPE,” Bell shares. “That was the thought process of a very energetic, independent and stubborn 35-year-old.”
“Long story short, it’s been a roller coaster. I finally got the MRI. I had a craniotomy. I did five proton therapy brain radiation treatments. I started a new regimen of chemo pills, which still includes receiving my triweekly Herceptin infusion. This process has hit me hard. I plainly remember thinking how a 35-year-old could feel so much older in such a short time frame,” Bell says.
Post-radiation, Bell encountered more unforeseen challenges, including steroid-induced myopathy and dysphagia, leading to a drastic decline in her ability to walk and eat.
“I couldn’t walk anymore – I started walking with a cane and then it went from a cane to a walker to a wheelchair and I couldn’t eat anymore,” Bell recalls. “I honestly thought I was gonna die. They started talking about Hospice that’s how serious they were.”
Bell continued to fight, determined to overcome the obstacles that threatened to eclipse her indomitable spirit.
By the end of 2021, a new chapter began for Bell, who underwent a right breast mastectomy, liver resection, and the removal of lymph nodes during a marathon 12-hour surgery.
“Going into my metastatic journey, my main goal was to treat my diagnosis as aggressively as I could so that I could have a greater chance at life. I remember having bursts of strength at times, just because I knew that I needed to be strong. Even while fighting for my life, I was Ashley first and this girl felt that she had to do all that she could to be here annoying y’all FOREVER,” Bell shares. “Reflecting now, the focus of dealing with the possibility of long-term side effects was not on my mind at all. I had adapted to my circumstances. I remember just wanting to get through my diagnosis, one day at a time. My diagnosis is aggressive but so am I!”
Fortunately, with Bell’s aggressive approach to treatment, her health took a turn for the better.
“I have had no evidence of disease this whole year. This year was the best year of my cancer journey,” Bell shares.
“I will be on some type of treatment for the rest of my life. So, now what? It is putting a game plan in motion to deal with the onset of those painful side effects that will come along because of metastatic breast cancer treatments. I have learned how to manage my pain to a level that makes it bearable for everyday life,” Bell notes.
Advocacy and Breaking Barriers
Bell’s journey extends beyond her personal triumphs. Motivated by her own ordeal, she now passionately encourages Black women her age to prioritize regular testing and advocate for their health with the hopes that it will prevent others from enduring the same neglect she faced in her journey toward diagnosis and treatment.
“You know your body better than anybody [else]…never let anybody tell you about your body,” Bell advises.
Part of Bell’s advocacy work includes walking in New York Fashion Week for Cancer Culture x Ana Ono, which promotes inclusivity in intimate wear for breast cancer survivors. One notable piece is the unilateral sling bra called “Rachel”. The piece is designed for women with a single breast who chose not to undergo reconstruction. This initiative symbolizes a step toward empowering survivors and dismantling societal norms around beauty and femininity.
Empowering Others and Never Giving Up
Through her advocacy and candid sharing of her journey on platforms like YouTube, Bell hopes to inspire and empower others facing similar battles. Her advice to those navigating the complexities of healthcare is clear: always seek a second opinion and never underestimate the power of self-advocacy.
The breast cancer survivor also emphasizes the need for a robust support system, urging individuals to surround themselves with caring friends or family who can share the burden and provide unwavering support.
“My independence is how I cope with the diagnosis. Don’t be like me! Help is absolutely necessary and a strong support system is needed also. I DEFINITELY have that,” Bell concludes.
When to see a doctor
Knowing the symptoms of breast cancer is key to an early diagnosis and the best possible outcome. Here are signs to look out for:
- A lump or unusual thickening in the breast or underarm area
- A change in color or rash on the skin of the breast
- Unusual nipple discharge
- Swelling of all or part of the breast
- A change in size or shape of the breast
- Itchy, sore or scaling of the nipple
- Dimpling on breast skin or nipple turning inward
- Breast or nipple pain that does not go away
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact your physician for further testing. If you believe your doctor is being dismissive, remember to exercise your right to switch doctors or get a second opinion.
