Imagine discovering you have breast cancer while working as an oncology nurse—the very person who guides others through their cancer journeys. This is the reality Karen Gabler faced in April 2024, when she noticed a small lump in her left breast while changing clothes. As a 38-year-old oncology nurse practitioner, Karen was no stranger to the complexities of cancer, yet this personal diagnosis would test her in ways she never anticipated.
But here's where it gets even more intriguing: Despite her professional expertise, Karen’s journey was anything but straightforward. She initially planned to monitor the lump during an international trip with her husband and young daughter, intending to seek medical advice only if it persisted. Upon her return, the lump remained, prompting her to reach out to her primary care provider, Dr. Scott Agee. And this is the part most people miss: Karen’s strong relationship with her primary care doctor—something she emphasizes as crucial for everyone—streamlined her path to diagnosis.
After a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy, Karen received a diagnosis that stunned her: invasive ductal carcinoma, estrogen and progesterone positive. A follow-up PET scan confirmed the cancer was confined to her left breast, but the real surprise came with genetic testing. Despite no family history of breast cancer, Karen discovered she carried the BRCA2 gene mutation, a revelation that reshaped her treatment plan entirely. Here’s the controversial part: While some might opt for a lumpectomy or single-side mastectomy, Karen chose a bilateral mastectomy to reduce her 25% recurrence risk. Was this the right decision? It’s a question that sparks debate, and we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Karen’s treatment didn’t stop at surgery. Due to her age, BRCA status, and tumor characteristics, she underwent four cycles of chemotherapy, a process she found both physically and emotionally challenging. But here’s the silver lining: As an oncology nurse, Karen had a unique perspective, knowing exactly what to expect from chemo. Yet, she admits, ‘Needing chemo made it very real that I have cancer.’ Her experience highlights the duality of being both a patient and a provider, a role her colleague, Morgan Steele, describes as ‘navigating personal and professional boundaries when it hits so close to home.’
Today, Karen is in medically induced menopause to prevent recurrence, managing side effects like fatigue and joint pain. Her journey has been far more extensive than she anticipated, involving five surgeries, physical therapy, and cardiology visits. Yet, she remains focused on self-care, prioritizing healthy eating and exercise to prevent recurrence. With her ovaries scheduled for removal around age 40, Karen isn’t letting future challenges deter her. Instead, she’s already planning for ski season with her husband, determined to reclaim the activities she loves.
Karen’s resilience has left her colleagues in awe. ‘She’s handled every step with composure and confidence,’ says Steele. But what do you think? Is Karen’s approach to treatment and recovery something you’d consider, or would you make different choices? Share your thoughts below—we’re eager to hear your perspective!
