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Breast cancer blindsided me, and I overcame it

- by Ashley Tamasovich 

 

In 2018, I had everything anyone could desire. A loving husband, two wonderful daughters ages 8 and 3, a beautiful home and a career that enabled me to help people. 

 

I had a lot of life ahead of me. Or so I thought. 

 

One night, at the age of 36, I felt a lump in my armpit. 

 

Soon after, I was diagnosed with stage 2 HER2 breast cancer, a high-risk and aggressive disease. My storybook life was shattered. What if … 

 

Too much at risk to settle for less 

I was young, active, ate healthy and had no family history of breast cancer. How could this happen? I had a family and couldn’t bear the thought of not being there for them. 

 

So, I researched. I needed the best care and the best doctors. There was too much at risk to settle for less. Thankfully, I found the Genesis Cancer Care Center. As time matters in cancer treatment, I quickly underwent surgery and chemotherapy. 

 

Gratefully looking back 

It was hard. I was exhausted, nauseated, lost my appetite and my body ached. However, I was blessed to receive support from my family and friends and the new friends I made at Genesis. I was more than a task they had to complete. They understood what was at stake. They took a personal interest in me and got me through the most challenging part of my life. 

 

It has been five amazing years since my diagnosis. Five years of continuing to be a wife and mom. Five years of watching my daughters grow and compete in gymnastics competitions across the U.S. I know the pressure is on them when they compete, but I promise it is harder to watch. I want them to be happy so much I become a nervous wreck during competitions … and I wouldn’t miss it for anything. 

 

Joyfully looking ahead 

I am sharing my story because I want everyone to know you can beat cancer. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can make a difference. I didn’t fit the profile, but cancer still found me. Then I found Genesis, and I get to stay active and do the things I love. 

 

I get to keep being a wife, a mom and enjoying my hectic, wonderful life. 

 

Self-exams to self-awareness 

Breast self-exams (BSE) used to be the recommended routine screening for breast cancer. Current guidelines from the American Cancer Society (ACS) now emphasize the importance of breast awareness. 

 

Breast awareness involves being familiar with how your breasts look and feel and promptly reporting changes to your healthcare provider.  

 

Here are general guidelines: 

  1. Know: Familiarize yourself with your breasts’ normal appearance and feel. 

  2. Observe: Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides and visually inspect your breasts for changes in size, shape or contour; skin changes or changes in the nipples. 

  3. Perform: Lie down and place a pillow under your right shoulder. Use the pads of your three middle fingers on your left hand to examine your right breast. Apply light pressure and use a circular motion to cover the entire breast, including the underarm area and the area above the collarbone. Repeat the process on your left breast using your right hand. 

  4. Check: Pay attention to lumps, thickening or areas of unusual firmness. Many women have lumpy breasts due to normal hormonal changes, so finding a lump doesn’t mean you have breast cancer. Consult your provider if you notice new or unusual changes. 

 

Breast awareness is not a substitute for regular mammograms or professional exams. Women aged 40 and older are encouraged to undergo regular mammograms as part of breast cancer screening programs. 

 

However, if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, talk with your Primary Care or Specialty Physician about a screening schedule. 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

In 2018, I had everything anyone could desire. A loving husband, two wonderful daughters ages 8 and 3, a beautiful home and a career that enabled me to help people. 

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Choosing Genesis: a doctor’s choice for treatment

In September 2023, Brandice Alexander, D.O., began her 13th year as a Fellowship-trained, Board-certified Trauma Surgeon at Genesis HealthCare System. 

 

Only because she followed recommended colon cancer screening guidelines when prompted by her family physician. Two days after her colonoscopy, she received a call with the biopsy results that one of the two polyps found was cancerous. 

  

Dr. Alexander’s mentor and colleague Stuart D. Chow, D.O., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Trauma Surgeon at the Genesis Center for Surgical Excellence, performed her surgery. Shyamal R. Bastola, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist/Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center, coordinated with her treatment. “I’d rather be treated close to home by people I know and trust,” she said. “If I thought for one second that my chance for recovery was better somewhere else, I would have gone there.” 

  

Another factor in choosing Genesis was that Dr. Chow would perform her surgery robotically. “He was instrumental in getting our robotic program going,” she said. “We are far ahead of most hospitals.” 

  

After her surgery, Dr. Alexander created a Facebook post. “I rarely post. However, I wanted all my friends and colleagues to see and share the message that cancer is treatable if you catch it early.” 

  

There was one more call containing bad news. One of her lymph nodes was positive for cancer, and she needed chemo. “My Genesis family was phenomenal,” she said. “I received cards from Genesis President and CEO Matt Perry, and letters of encouragement from the entire hospital community.” She said that whoever designed the Cancer Care Center infusion suite, where rows of comfortable recliners overlook the Genesis Fitness Trail, is a genius. “Watching colleagues and people come and go was great therapy,” she said.  

 

Eleven years ago, Dr. Alexander and her husband purchased a foreclosed property on an acre of land less than a mile from Genesis Hospital. They have a pair of St. Bernard littermates, Sophie and Finn, who endlessly entertain them with sibling squabbles. 

  

When she gets home from work, Dr. Alexander does a walkabout of the yard and gardens with the dogs. “This year, I’ve been into propagating plants,” she said. “We love our backyard. It’s a good place to recharge.” A guitarist at her church, Dr. Alexander often plays in her gazebo or one of several seating areas. 

 

Dr. Alexander says she is a glass-is-half-full kind of person. Now she uses her experience as a patient to reassure her patients. “I tell them, ‘I know you’re scared, but you need to know that there are six people in this surgery suite, and you are our only focus.’ I’ve been on the receiving end of that focus. The right people are in those positions.” 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

In September 2023, Brandice Alexander, D.O., began her 13th year as a Fellowship-trained, Board-certified Trauma Surgeon at Genesis HealthCare System. 

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Thankful for helping hands close to home

Alicia Farus’ hands are always moving. She is either making, baking or cooking something. She loves to knit. During the holiday season, she enjoys handwriting messages in Christmas cards. A few years ago, though, she started to have issues with her right hand and arm. She has another neurological issue, so at first she attributed her symptoms to that disorder.   

  

An initial symptom was weakness. She started to drop things. She had to regularly stop knitting because of numbness. She couldn’t write Christmas cards. As time went by, she couldn’t lift things. If she wanted to cook pasta, a family favorite, her husband Scott had to fill the pots with water and move them to the stove. When the pasta was ready, Scott had to lift the contents and move them to a strainer. “We are a team,” Alicia said, “and I’m grateful for that, but it is difficult to become completely dependent on someone.” Eventually, Alicia had to stop almost all of the activities she loved. “The pain kept increasing,” she said. “I wasn’t sleeping.” She finally decided to move ahead with a diagnosis she was fairly certain would include surgery.  

  

Alicia and her husband were referred to a specialist at a hospital that required a fair amount of travel. They expected to hear that Alicia had carpal tunnel syndrome, and the specialist confirmed that.   

 

The best option is close to home  

Her husband was happy about a surgery he’d had at Genesis, so Alicia decided to get a second opinion from Matthew Langford, M.D., Fellowship-trained, Board-certified Orthopedic Hand Surgeon at the Genesis Orthopedic Center. Dr. Langford confirmed the carpal tunnel diagnosis but added that she also needed surgery for pronator syndrome. “Pronator syndrome makes carpal tunnel worse,” said Alicia. “That explained the absolutely excruciating pain.”   

  

Alicia felt extremely comfortable with Dr. Langford and listed his amazing bedside manner as one of the reasons. “He takes his time and explains everything. He told me what he was looking for and what he found. He talks to you as if you’re on the same level.” 

  

Dr. Langford told Alicia that he could perform both surgeries at the same time. “It sounds worse than it was,” Alicia said. “Carpal tunnel is a simple surgery, and even with the addition of the pronator surgery, it was done on an outpatient basis.” Alicia went home that day. “I had discomfort because of the surgery, of course, but the terrible pain went away as soon as the surgery was done.” 

  

At the time of this interview, Alicia was about eight weeks out from her surgery, still healing but well on her way to a full recovery. As she followed the recovery plan, which included physical therapy at home, Dr. Langford and his team were available to answer questions and review her progress. 

 

“I’m cooking and writing again, but my favorite recovered activities are pushing my granddaughter on a swing and steering her stroller when we go on walks. I highly recommend that people considering surgery for a hand or arm issue meet with the orthopedic team at Genesis first." 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Alicia and her husband were referred to a specialist at a hospital that required a fair amount of travel. They expected to hear that Alicia had carpal tunnel syndrome, and the specialist confirmed that.   

 

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Genesis Primary Care in Coshocton

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Offering experience and convenience

Your Primary Care Physician (PCP) is your go-to medical partner. They manage your preventative and wellness care, such as physicals and immunizations, and the management of chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. They are there for you when you are sick to order diagnostic testing, treatment, referrals to specialists and much more.  

 

Genesis Primary Care now has three compassionate, experienced physicians who specialize in family medicine in the Genesis Physician Services office at 23599 Airport Rd., Suite A, Coshocton. They also specialize in internal medicine, obesity medicine and addiction medicine. 

 

Audrey Onuzo, M.D. 

Sameera Rahman, M.D. 

Elise Sadoun, M.D. 

 

Extended office hours 

We know you’re busy, so we offer appointments in the evenings during the week. If weekdays are challenging for you – we have good news. We offer all-day Saturday hours, too.  

 

Hours are: 

Monday and Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Thursday through Saturday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

 

Walk-ins welcome 

Scheduling an appointment ahead of time works well for many, but you have another option at the Genesis Primary Care Airport Road office in Coshocton. Walk-in patients are welcome. 

 

Schedule an appointment 

You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Onuzo, Dr. Rahman or Dr. Sadoun through the Genesis website and your MyChart electronic medical record. Go to genesishcs.org/schedule. You can also call 740-722-9555 to make an appointment. 

 

Location 

Genesis Primary Care 

23599 Airport Rd., Suite A 

Coshocton, OH 43812 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Genesis Primary Care now has three compassionate, experienced physicians who specialize in family medicine in the Genesis Physician Services office at 23599 Airport Rd., Suite A, Coshocton.

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The surgical care you need in Coshocton

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Your Coshocton surgeons 

Matthew Phillips, M.D., FACS, Board-certified General Surgeon, has joined the surgical team of Thomas Diehl, M.D., Board-certified General Surgeon, and David Barbara, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified General Surgeon, at the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center (GCMC). This team of superb surgeons brings the skills, experience and compassion to Coshocton that has elevated Genesis Surgery to among the best in Central and Southeastern Ohio.   

 

These surgeons and other specialists perform several outpatient surgeries at the new GCMC so patients can remain close to home and family. 

 

Surgeries and procedures performed in Coshocton   

  • Ear, nose and throat (tonsillectomies, ear tubes and sinus procedures)  

  • Endoscopies (colonoscopies and upper endoscopies)  

  • General (laparoscopic procedures, cyst removals, port placements and more)  

  • Gynecology  

  • Orthopedics (carpal tunnel release, pinning, nerve repair and more)  

  • Podiatry (foot and ankle procedures)  

  • Sports medicine (shoulder and knee procedures)  

  • Urogynecology (bladder stimulator, implants, slings, cystoscopies and more) 

 

Thomas Diehl, M.D.; Matthew Phillips, M.D.; David Barbara, M.D.

Thomas Diehl, M.D.; Matthew Phillips, M.D.; David Barbara, M.D.

Each of our surgeons is accepting new patients, and a referral is not required. However, it is always recommended to start with your Primary Care Physician. To contact the Genesis Medical Group in Coshocton, call 740-722-9555. 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

This team of superb surgeons brings the skills, experience and compassion to Coshocton that has elevated Genesis Surgery to among the best in Central and Southeastern Ohio.   

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Mammograms

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According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Thankfully, it is treatable, especially with early detection. Even so, many women avoid scheduling or keeping an appointment for a mammogram. 

 

What is a mammogram? 

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Its primary function is to detect breast cancer or other abnormalities in the breast tissue. 

 

When should women start getting mammograms? 

General recommendations for cancer screenings vary based on age: 

  •  Women older than 30 only need to have a mammogram if they exhibit symptoms, like a lump. 

  •  Women between the ages of 40 and 54 should be screened for breast cancer each year.  

  •  Women over age 55 should be screened for breast cancer every other year. 

 

If you have a family history of breast cancer, your Primary Care Physician (PCP) may recommend beginning screenings sooner or more frequently.  

 

Why are mammograms so important? 

Mammograms can detect abnormalities sooner than a manual breast exam, making them a great first line of defense. According to the American College of Radiology, mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the U.S. by nearly 40% since 1990. 

 

Although mammograms are a key part of breast cancer prevention, many women put off their mammograms or avoid them entirely. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. 

 

According to a new study from MedStar Health, here are the most common reasons women don’t get mammograms (and why you should rethink getting that appointment on your calendar): 

 

“I haven’t gotten around to it.” 

Life is busy, and it’s easy to let preventive care fall by the wayside, especially when taking care of family. However, your health is important, too. Next time you make an appointment with your PCP, mention that you’re due for a mammogram and schedule it.  

 

“I’ve had normal mammograms in the past,” or “Breast cancer doesn’t run in my family.” 

If breast cancer isn’t a concern for you, missing a mammogram or two doesn’t seem like a big deal. However, the risk of developing cancer increases with age, regardless of family history. It’s critical to continue getting tested to ensure you are healthy. 

 

“Mammograms are painful.” 

Many women complain that mammograms are uncomfortable or painful, but they don’t have to be. If you’re avoiding your mammogram due to pain, talk to your PCP about your options. 

 

Avoid scheduling your mammogram the week before your period to avoid sensitivities from hormonal changes. Take acetaminophen before the appointment. If the position of the imaging plates is uncomfortable,  

ask the technician to adjust them. 

 

"I’m afraid. What if they find something?” 

Anxiety around medical testing is common, and understandable, particularly when it comes to tests that can reveal something like cancer.  

 

Talk to your PCP about your concerns. Bring a loved one with you for moral support before and after the test. 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Thankfully, it is treatable, especially with early detection. Even so, many women avoid scheduling or keeping an appointment for a mammogram. 

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Air fryer BBQ cauliflower wings

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These air-fryer “honey” BBQ cauliflower wings will be a hit at your next tailgate party. The wings have the flavor and crunch of traditional BBQ wings but contain fewer grams of fat and calories. While these cauliflower wings have the taste of honey, they have no added sugar since they’re sweetened with an artificial sweetener. 

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened soy or almond milk
  • 1/8 tsp kosher salt
  • 10-ounce package of cauliflower florets
  • 1/3 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

 

Nutritional information:

  • Servings: 4 
  • Serving Size: 4 ounces cauliflower wings
  • Calories per serving: 80
  • Total Fat: 1.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 230 mg
  • Total Carbohydrate: 16 g 
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 g
  • Total Sugars: 4 g
  • Added Sugars: 0 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Potassium: 450 mg
  • Phosphorus: 90 mg

 

Instructions:

To make the wings: Preheat air fryer to 375 degrees F. In a medium bowl, whisk together batter ingredients. (If batter is too thin, add a little more flour and stir.) Add in cauliflower florets and toss to coat each piece evenly. 

Spray basket of air fryer with nonstick cooking spray. Using tongs, place each batter-covered floret into the basket. It’s best to work in two batches so you don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Air-fry each batch for 7 minutes, then remove and brush cauliflower wings with your preferred sauce. Return to air fryer another 1–2 minutes until crispy.

Remove and repeat for the next batch. 

Approved by:
Sarah Brauning, MS, RD, LD, CDE
Genesis Registered Dietitian
Diabetes & Nutrition Education


Find more recipes at genesishcs.org/eatwell.

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

These air-fryer “honey” BBQ cauliflower wings will be a hit at your next tailgate party.

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Spotlight on Steven C. Fulop, M.D.

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Steven C. Fulop, M.D., MBA, FAANS, recently joined the Genesis Neurosurgery Group, specializing in neurosurgery.

 

Dr. Fulop’s interest in science and its applications prompted him to consider medicine as a career. During medical school he took an interest in neuroscience. He said he favored surgery because he was a college athlete and enjoyed the performance and pressure.

 

He performs spinal procedures including arthroplasty, thoracic and lumbar decompression and minimally invasive (MIS) procedures.

 

Dr. Fulop is a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and attended college at Ohio Wesleyan in Delaware, Ohio. His family lives in Cleveland and Columbus. Currently a Lt. Col. in the U.S. Army Reserves, when he was on active duty in Iraq he met a Genesis physician who encouraged him to consider a career at Genesis. Dr. Fulop says he is looking forward to “providing excellent care to patients with neurosurgical issues.”  

 

Dr. Fulop said that because he has to stay in shape for the Reserves, he spends a lot of time exercising, which he enjoys. A Cleveland Browns and Ohio State Buckeyes fan, he also likes to fish, watch movies and play video games that improve coordination and problem-solving skills.  

 

Dr. Fulop’s office is located at the Genesis Neuroscience Center at 955 Bethesda Drive, Garden Level, in Zanesville. His phone number is 740-586-6828. He is accepting new patients by physician referral.

 

 

Doctor of Medicine:  

Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine

Cleveland, Ohio

 

Neurosurgery Residency:  

University Hospitals/MetroHealth Medical Center

Cleveland, Ohio

 

Board-certified:  

American Board of Neurological Surgery

American Association of Neurological Surgeons

 

 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Steven C. Fulop, M.D., MBA, FAANS, recently joined the Genesis Neurosurgery Group, specializing in neurosurgery.

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Spotlight on Walter Randolph, M.D., MS

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After more than 24 years of a successful private practice, Walter Randolph, M.D., MS, joined Genesis Women’s Health Specialists, serving the Coshocton area. When he was considering a change, Dr. Randolph said he wanted to join a system with a strong focus on patients and communities. “As soon as I started talking with the people here, I knew I was making the right choice,” he said. “I have always worked to educate patients about their conditions, so they understand what is happening and why I do certain things to help. That happens best in this type of practice.”  

 

A fourth-generation physician, Dr. Randolph said he initially pursued a career in the sciences, but “God always led me back to medicine.” He considered other specialties but chose obstetrics and gynecology because it is a combination of clinical and surgical medicine. It also allowed him to see a variety of patients for a long period of their lives.

 

Dr. Randolph is also looking forward to the use of the new surgical suites in Coshocton. “The facility has all the technology to best serve our patients,” he said.

 

Dr. Randolph, his wife and family like hiking, boating, birdwatching and spending time outdoors. “I enjoy fresh air and open spaces.”  

 

Dr. Randolph’s office is at 1417 Kaderly St. NW in New Philadelphia. His phone number is 330-602-5678. He is accepting new patients.

 

Doctor of Medicine:  
University of Toledo Medical Center

Toledo, Ohio

 

Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency:  

Aultman Hospital

Canton, Ohio

 

Board-certified:

The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology 

 

 

 

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Dr Randolph Spotlight

After more than 24 years of a successful private practice, Walter Randolph, M.D., MS, joined  
Genesis Women’s Health Specialists, serving the Coshocton area.

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A letter from our President and CEO | LiveWell Autumn 2023

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What matters most

In the last 18 months, Genesis has continued to invest in the latest technology, equipment and facilities. We have updated and doubled our robotic-assisted surgery equipment, implemented additional best-of-class software, opened the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center and expanded our primary care and specialty physician offices.  

All amazing accomplishments.

 

If asked to pick our most significant achievement, my answer will always be the same. Building and supporting an outstanding team of caregivers. Your neighbors, friends and family members make Genesis what we are, a top 50 heart hospital in the nation and a healthcare system nationally recognized for our high quality, compassionate care.

 

We are grateful that we can provide our team with innovative technology and modern facilities to perform at their highest levels. However, the skill of our dedicated team members is and always will be the most valuable part of Genesis.

 

Building the team

While we have been busy building over the last year and a half, we have also added many new physicians. Join us in welcoming five more physicians who are highlighted on the following pages.

 

Our patients

As always, we highlight some of our recent patients within LiveWell. For the first time in this publication, we also provide a check-up on previous patients to learn how they are doing years after their life-threatening health scares.

 

Thank you for supporting Genesis and our team.

 

Matt Perry  

President and CEO 

 

 

What matters most.

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