Rosemarie Turnbaugh, a 53-year-old Scranton native, received devastating news in July 2022 when she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer after a routine mammogram at Geisinger. Despite her healthy lifestyle and no family history of breast cancer, Turnbaugh was taken aback by the diagnosis.
Further tests unfortunately revealed that the cancer had already spread to her lymph nodes and thyroid, making her situation even more challenging. Turnbaugh embarked on an intensive chemotherapy regimen, enduring weekly treatments for six long months. The side effects were difficult to bear, often leaving her feeling sick and fatigued. One of the most visible side effects of the chemotherapy was the loss of her hair, but Turnbaugh accepted it as a necessary sacrifice in her battle against cancer.
After completing the grueling chemotherapy sessions, Turnbaugh underwent surgery to remove the tumor and affected lymph nodes. The aftermath of the surgery brought a glimmer of hope as it was discovered that she had achieved a complete clinical response, with no remaining cancer cells detected. To reduce the chances of the cancer returning, Turnbaugh underwent a month-long radiation treatment, which she surprisingly found relatively manageable.
In her ongoing fight against cancer, Turnbaugh has now embarked on immunotherapy treatment called Keytruda. She has responded well to the treatment and is hopeful for positive results.
As she looks back on her journey, Turnbaugh urges women not to neglect routine mammograms. In her case, she had not been tested for three years prior to her diagnosis, a decision she deeply regrets. Regular screenings can detect breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.
Despite facing numerous challenges, Turnbaugh’s determination and resilience have paid off. Following a period of 10 months off work to focus on her health, she has successfully returned to her job. Furthermore, her hair has started to grow back, reflecting her improving condition and overall sense of well-being.
Rosemarie Turnbaugh’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection and the crucial role that routine mammograms play in saving lives. Her journey is an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with perseverance and the best medical care available, one can overcome even the most daunting of obstacles.
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