Every October, there's a lot of talk about screening, statistics, and early detection. This year, we wanted to hand the conversation to the people who know our care best. Over the years, our patients have shared their experiences with us online. Their words have meant more to our team than they probably realize. We gathered some of them here, along with reflections from the doctors who care for them.
For many women, the hardest moment comes before treatment ever begins. "Hearing the word 'cancer' is terrifying, but Dr. Mangiameli and his whole team made the journey so much easier," one patient shared. Another described Dr. DeRisi and his staff as "compassionate and supportive when you need it most." Supporting patients through these moments isn’t something we take lightly. “Being entrusted with another person’s fear and hope carries a responsibility to bring both compassion and the fullest measure of our clinical and surgical knowledge to them.” says Dr. Mangiameli.
Once the initial shock settles, patients want to understand what comes next. That's where time and clear answers make all the difference. "Dr. Larsen was excellent," one patient wrote. "He explained the diagnosis and available options in detail. I came away feeling so much better." Another shared, "He takes the time to review your results with you and answer any questions you may have. His visits never feel rushed." For Dr. Larsen, that time with patients is the heart of his work. “Breast cancer can be an emotional disease, but my greatest professional joy is guiding patients through their cancer journey,” he says.
Our patients rarely talk about just one person. They talk about the whole team. "Everyone in his office is of the same high standard," one of Dr. DeRisi's patients wrote. "This practice is what medical care should be." Dr. Mendoza's patients feel the same way. "Dr. Mendoza and her team saved my life," one said. "They treated me with the love and respect you would expect from family."
That teamwork has one goal in mind. Dr. Mangiameli explains, “Each thoughtful decision, each carefully performed operation, is an opportunity to give someone a better chance at recovery and a return to their life, as it was before their diagnosis.” For some patients, that connection lasts long after treatment ends. "There is no one else I wanted by my side than you during my journey," one patient told Dr. Mangiameli. "I still need you by my side." Another said of Dr. Larsen, "He eases all my anxieties and I know that I will always get the best care from him."
Some of our favorite reviews are written for the next woman facing a diagnosis. "If you choose Dr. DeRisi to be your doctor, you will never want to see another doctor ever," one patient wrote. Another offered this advice, "No need to look any further. Dr. DeRisi is the way to go to get through this calmly and comfortably."
Encouragement like this is exactly why we wanted to share these words. To every patient who took a moment to tell us about their experience, thank you. Your words help other women feel less alone during a frightening time. If this is the month you've been meaning to schedule your screening, consider this your sign.