Back on track

Angie Beros loves cheering on drivers at the local speedway.

“Dirt races have been part of my life since high school,” said Angie. “There’s something special about the roar of engines on those dusty nights at the track.”

When Angie found a lump in her right breast in October 2024, she knew she needed a mammogram.

“I saw a free mammogram program that was promoted through Genesis,” said Angie. “It encouraged me to see my doctor.”

Changing the course

Angie’s provider referred her to Genesis for a mammogram, which led to the discovery of her breast cancer.

“The Genesis radiologists didn’t like how the mammogram looked,” said Angie. “They immediately did an ultrasound.”

Results were shared with Shannon M. Hanley, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Surgeon at the Genesis Breast Care Center.

Fifteen minutes later, Angie met Dr. Hanley for an exam and biopsy.

“Everyone made sure that my appointments were close together,” said Angie. ”I’m grateful for the compassion I was shown, especially on that day.”

Angie was diagnosed with Stage IA invasive ductal carcinoma. This type of cancer begins in the milk duct and has invaded the surrounding breast tissue.

“Breast cancer makes up around 30% of new cancers among women in the United States each year,” said Dr. Hanley. “One in eight women will develop breast cancer. If detected early, there is a 99% 5-year survival rate.”

In the driver’s seat

Angie didn’t know where to turn when she heard the diagnosis.

“Once I met Dr. Hanley and her staff,” said Angie, “I knew I was staying at Genesis. It was where God led me.”

Angie decided to have surgery in November 2024.

“It was important to learn about my options,” said Angie. “Dr. Hanley made information easy for my husband and me to follow during an overwhelming time.”

Dr. Hanley performed a lumpectomy, a breast-conserving surgery that removes the cancer while keeping the healthy breast tissue intact.

Angie was away from the dirt track throughout her treatment and recovery. She hadn’t been away from the track for many years.

Angie met with Scott A. Wegner, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist/Oncologist and Chief Medical Officer at Genesis HealthCare System. Dr. Wegner delivered the news Angie had been praying for throughout her journey.

“Dr. Wegner said that I wouldn’t need chemotherapy,” said Angie. “Chemotherapy was my biggest fear. Thankfully, radiation was the next step.”

Victory lane

Mark Kenamond, M.D., Radiation Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center, worked with Angie for her treatment.

“Angie was treated with radiotherapy for five and a half weeks,” said Dr. Kenamond. “Our team created a personalized care plan and has supported her throughout treatment.”

Angie is currently working with Dr. Wegner for adjuvant hormone therapy.

“Used after surgery, adjuvant hormone therapy stops breast cancer cells from attaching to proteins in cells that encourage growth,” said Dr. Wegner.

Angie recently had her first mammogram since surgery. 

“There are many signs of healing. I’m blessed with the care I received at Genesis,” said Angie. “I’m back at the races, and most importantly, I feel healthy.”