Pregnant woman credits early cancer detection for saving her life

Kara opened up about the fear and uncertainty she faced when she first learned of her diagnosis: "I was pregnant with my third baby. You know, I had a two-year-old and a four-year-old at home, and I just wasn't feeling well with that pregnancy. [Then I found out] I had cancer."

At first, she felt overwhelmed and scared, worrying about how she was going to survive and what would happen to her unborn child. She recalls, "Of course, you go right away and think like, I'm not going to survive. I'm going to die. And that's terrifying. Completely terrifying."

Despite her fears, Kara received support from her family and her Ascension Wisconsin care team, who helped her throughout her treatment and while pregnant. She received chemotherapy and was induced at 36 weeks, giving birth to a healthy baby. After giving birth, she continued with chemotherapy treatment.

Reflecting on her experience, Kara emphasizes the importance of catching and preventing cancer at an early stage. "If we can prevent or catch cancers at a very early stage, it would be life-changing…literally life-changing for people," she says.

Kara is grateful for the care she received at Ascension Wisconsin, noting "It's very important to have a team that listens to you and that supports you."

Being diagnosed with cancer can leave you with a lot of questions and uncertainty. Our Ascension Wisconsin Cancer Care team is here to listen, support you and answer your questions. Start a conversation with a cancer specialist who listens at Ascension Wisconsin. Learn more at ascension.org/wisconsincancer care.