Understanding Metaplastic Cancer Through Tanya's Journey
I. What is Metaplastic Cancer?
Metaplastic breast cancer stands out as an aggressive form of breast cancer that sets itself apart from the more prevalent variations of the disease found in individuals worldwide. Unlike the types of breast cancer that start in either the milk ducts or lobules of the breast tissue, metaplastic breast cancer undergoes a unique transformation where the cells develop into different types posing significant challenges in terms of treatment. Due to its rare occurrence, this particular type of cancer has not been extensively researched and lacks well-established treatment methods, often leaving both patients and healthcare providers navigating unfamiliar territory with limited guidance. Metaplastic breast cancers’ aggressive tendencies lead to quick spreading and resistance to standard treatments compared to other types of breast cancer diagnoses.
II. Tanya’s Journey with Metaplastic Cancer
Tanya Taylor's journey with metaplastic breast cancer started like many others—with uncertainty and fear. Tanya, a talented TV producer and director, was diagnosed after experiencing severe symptoms. The diagnosis was a shock; not only was it a rare form of breast cancer, but it had already reached an advanced stage by the time it was discovered. The cancer had spread to her right iliac bone, lung, and liver, defining it as stage 4.
Since the cancer was already so advanced, she was very limited when it came to treatment options. Since the cancer was so widespread, making surgery unfeasible, her doctors recommended a strong chemotherapy treatment. However, Tanya declined this option of treatment after being informed by her oncologist that this disease has no cure, and the treatment would be continuous. Instead, Tanya chose to focus on the quality of life, rather than the quantity of time she could have.
Her treatment journey has been a long series of trials and then adjustments. She started with radiation to stabilize the tumor in her breast and reduce inflammation, followed by immunotherapy infusions every three weeks. These treatments initially helped Tanya manage the disease temporarily, but didn’t stop its progression. A chemo pill was next on the list, being less invasive, but after three months, the cancer continued to spread, this time to her lungs and hips. A clinical trial aimed at treating triple-negative breast cancer didn’t work out as they had hoped, forcing Tanya and her doctors to rethink their approach once again.
III. Tanya’s Strength and Resilience
Throughout her journey, Tanya has displayed the epitome of strength and resilience. Upon receiving her diagnosis, she took a pragmatic approach, choosing to focus on what she could control. She had made a list of things she wanted to achieve: continue working in TV production, visit a city that had always called to her, see Egypt, and direct her first feature film. But this list wasn’t just about ticking off life goals, it was about finding joy and purpose through the uncertainty.
Despite the challenges she faced, Tanya has achieved some of her aspirations! She worked on a TV show, "Dress My Tour," that is now available on Hulu. She also visited New Orleans, where she participated in a film festival panel and explored the vibrant city.
“I’m very pragmatic so I’ve approached it logically. I started making a list of things I’d ideally want to do if I had only 6 months to live and unlimited resources. It’s a number I picked as they hadn’t given me a prognosis as this type of cancer is unknown. Anyhoo, the list was short.
1) I wanted to work - I’m a tv producer and director and on set is my happy place.
2) I wanted to visit a city that’s always called to me and I’d never been to.
3) I wanted to visit Egypt.
4) I wanted to direct my first, and possibly only, feature film."
“But 2 out of 4 isn’t bad.
1) I did work on TV show last August that’s now on Hulu!
2) A friend flew me to New Orleans for a film festival panel, so I had 3 days walking around the French Quarter after my panel was completed.
Now with this latest onset of new lesions, I’m hoping the universe finds me a way to at least cross Egypt and the pyramids off the list.”
When faced with setbacks, Tanya highlights adaptability. Each time a treatment failed or a new symptom emerged, she adjusted her plans, exploring new options and finding experimental treatments. She embraced a positive mindset throughout her journey, choosing to share her story publicly, breaking down the stigma surrounding cancer. Her bucket list is a testament to her unyielding strength, showing us how to face terminal cancer not with despair, but with hope and determination—teaching us the preciousness of every moment as she strives to fulfill her dreams and embrace life to its fullest, one goal at a time.
IV. Tanya’s Strength and Resilience
Recently, Tanya’s battle has taken another turn. New lesions have appeared in her brain, causing neurological symptoms like slowed and slurred speech. A recent MRI confirmed these lesions, and she is now doing treatment with steroids to reduce the brain swelling, with plans for more radiation in the upcoming weeks.
Even with these new challenges, Tanya stays focused on her fierce determination to live life on her own terms.
V. Conclusion
Tanya Taylor's experience with metaplastic breast cancer demonstrates remarkable courage and perseverance in the face of a challenging diagnosis. Her story highlights the need to raise awareness about rare cancers and push for more research and improved treatments. Tanya's choice to live life fully, despite the obstacles she encounters, is a powerful example for all of us. She reminds us that, even when life is unpredictable, we have the strength to confront our difficulties with courage, optimism, and a determination to make the most of every day.
Her sister was also able to create a GoFundMe to support Tanya and ease the financial burden of this disease; check out the link and feel free to donate here:
Check her out on insta @t2onelyfe
