Update from the Breast Cancer Recovery Staff

Why We Are Not Hosting an In-Person Fundraising Event This Year

Breast Cancer Recovery has a staff of two: a half-time Executive Director and a full-time Program Director, with a volunteer board of directors of seven.

Many of you know that Klara Hartfiel's, our program director, breast cancer has recurred. What many do not know is that it has now been diagnosed as Stage 4 / metastatic to the bone (on her rib). Radiation occurred in May, and all signs point to eradication of the cancer. In July, she has started her long-term treatment.

Many know that two years ago this month, I had my right knee replacement — the right knee is doing great, and I'd recommend it to anyone who needs one.

My left knee has had something going on since I tripped on a carpet in early April. Had an MRI last week, and I did a "good" job on it: 2 torn MCLs, a leaking cyst, and floating particles. Surgery to clean up the knee will also be needed this summer/fall.

12 years ago this month, I had my first breast cancer diagnosis, and I had my annual mammogram on July 1, which showed that I have a new cancer in the same breast. Stage 1A ductal carcinoma in situ — with the twist of HER2 positive this time. Fortunately, it's very small, which is why surgery is first.

I met with the surgeon in July, and the mastectomy will be scheduled for the first week of September. The hope is that I will not need radiation or chemotherapy by having the mastectomy.

What does this mean for BCR with the two of us in treatment?

1.   Klara and I are both still working, just shorter hours for the coming months.
2.   Instead of hosting an in-person fundraiser, we are hosting an Un-Golf Outing! Do Not Save the Date; purchase your tickets to stay home!
3.   We will start "training" for the Couch to .2K with a gathering at Hilldale's green area, tentatively scheduled for Thursday, October 8.

Klara and I are taking this all in stride - one day at a time. Support from Family, friends, and Breast Cancer Recovery board, volunteers and supporters will keep us going.

Megan Purtell, Executive Director