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Katy Kell had regular mammograms and ultrasounds due to her family’s history with breast cancer. Her caution led to an early diagnosis.

Having a mother, sister or daughter diagnosed with breast cancer increases risk. This risk is higher when close relatives have breast cancer, or if a relative developed breast cancer under the age of 50. There are some people who have an increased risk of breast cancer because they have an inherited gene fault. About 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from gene changes passed on from a parent.

The most common cause of hereditary breast cancer is an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. In normal cells, these genes help make proteins that repair damaged DNA. Mutated versions of these genes can lead to abnormal cell growth, which can lead to cancer.

Having one of these faulty genes means that you are more likely to get breast cancer than someone who doesn’t, but it is not a guarantee. Genetic testing can be done to look for mutations when there is family history.

In Kell’s case, she had a first cousin diagnosed with breast cancer when she was about 30. This cousin had a total mastectomy and, after a gene study, a total hysterectomy.

Another cousin was also diagnosed with breast cancer.

She received treatment but eventually died from the disease.

One of Kell’s younger sisters died from pancreatic cancer in 2017.

Kell’s youngest sister died of breast cancer in 2021.

Before she died, she had a gene study done that showed the mutated gene. Her cancer was very aggressive and was treated with doxorubicin, commonly known as “red devil chemo” due to its bright red color and potential to cause serious side effects, including potential heart damage, in some individuals.

Doctors carefully test patients before giving them doxorubicin to see if they are likely to be vulnerable to the heart effects

“I had the gene study done after my youngest sister’s diagnosis and (I) did not have the mutated gene, which was a big relief,” Kell said.

“However, I continued to have my yearly mammograms, and several times had to have a follow up ultrasound due to dense breast tissue.”

Kell knew she had to keep vigilant. In December 2022 she had her annual mammogram and was asked to come back a month later for an ultrasound and then a biopsy, which showed a malignancy.

This was done through the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital.

“I, of course, was scared to pieces, ” Kell recalled. “However, there was no shortage of resources for me. I was scheduled for surgery in February for a lumpectomy and lymph node removal. My cancer was referred to as ductal carcinoma in situ or DCIS.”

DCIS is a noninvasive breast cancer. The abnormal cells are contained within the milk ducts, which carry milk from lobules to nipples during breastfeeding. With DCIS, the cancer cells have not invaded nearby tissue. After further analysis of Kell’s cancer, it was determined to be stage zero, meaning it was localized, hadn’t spread and was highly treatable. Kell let out a long “Phew!” when remembering her relief at this news. She continued with 3 weeks of radiation and continued to take hormone inhibitor medication.

Kell feels fortunate to have the support of friends and church family — Howland Community Church — especially one particular 90-year-old friend who survived more serious breast cancer surgery 30 years ago.

“It is a frightening diagnosis, but it does not mean the end of the world,” Kell said.

“I believe that I am more willing to try new things and go places because of this experience.”

Kell’s been employed as an administrative assistant at a manufacturing company in Niles for the last 15 years. She shares her home with two dogs and three cats.

“I live a full life these days and enjoy reading, listening to music, growing flowers, crocheting and…most people,” she laughed. “I am forever grateful for all who eased my path and look forward to living the balance of my life in hope.”