“Should I kick myself for not getting it checked earlier, well sure, however the battle is here, right now,”
In her sensational 60’s, Willa Edgerton-Chisler was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. In 2021, she had felt some pain and noticed a breast lump but delayed treatment while experiencing a wave of emotions: sadness, guilt, helplessness, and anxiety. While she didn't have any risk factors or a family history, she knew she couldn’t ignore it anymore and despite her added fear of contracting COVID, she scheduled an appointment for a biopsy.
Prior to her appointment, Willa was taken to the hospital for pneumonia. While she was there, she had imaging done, and they discovered her lump was cancerous. “I sensed in my heart I had it. Once my oncologist confirmed it, I was like ok what’s the game plan, let’s go do this,” says Willa.
Willa is being treated at the Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center with targeted hormone therapy. One year later, her cancer markers have decreased and the tumor has shrunk.
“Should I kick myself for not getting it checked earlier, well sure, however the battle is here, right now,” Willa exclaims. “When life gave me this type of circumstance, it became clear for me what my next life’s chapter purpose is about- helping others.”
When Willa started sharing her story with her circle of friends and family, she encouraged everyone to get past their fear, and get a mammogram. Because of her advocacy, a few of Willa’s friends have had mammograms and too were diagnosed with various stages of breast cancer.
"It has been quite a learning and humbling journey. The power of prayer, physicians and people has given me the courage, strength and hope needed to win this battle. As the building of my legacy continues, I don’t have any regrets. I am thankful for God’s Grace and Mercy on my life. Every day is a blessing and I am grateful for the support system in my life, especially my husband Lawrence."