Santa Rosa Beach mom’s year of breast cancer care

When Santa Rosa Beach resident Dee Dee was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in early 2024, she was stunned. “I’ve always been the healthy one,” she said. “I play tennis, pickleball, drink my spinach shakes, I thought I was doing everything right.”

After discovering a lump during a self-exam, Dee Dee underwent testing that later confirmed cancer. Within days of her diagnosis, she began working with Dr. Alison Moody, breast surgeon at Ascension Sacred Heart Surgical Breast Oncology Bay in Panama City, Florida. “Everything happened so fast,” she said. “But once I met Dr. Moody, I felt at peace. She explained everything clearly and never talked over my head.”

Dr. Moody guided Dee Dee through her surgical journey, including a double mastectomy in September 2024, following chemotherapy earlier that summer. “Our goal is to empower women through every step from diagnosis to recovery,” said Dr. Moody. “Every patient deserves compassionate care and clear communication.”

Dee Dee chose not to undergo reconstruction, a decision Dr. Moody supported. “It was empowering to feel in control of my body and my choices,” she said.

Today, Dee Dee is cancer-free and adjusting to life after treatment. While her body continues to heal, she says the experience has changed her outlook. “Cancer gives you a different lens. I’m not the same person I was before, but I’m stronger and more self-aware,” she said.

Dee Dee credits doing self-exams for helping her find cancer early, but she wishes she had pushed for a biopsy sooner. “Do your self-exams and advocate for yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. You know your body better than anyone,” she shared.

Dee Dee and her daughter are celebrating her remission with a mother-daughter trip to New York City this holiday season. It's a well-earned moment of joy after a year of treatment.

Being diagnosed with cancer can leave you with a lot of questions and uncertainty. Our care team is here to listen, support you and answer your questions. When you come to Ascension Sacred Heart Surgical Breast Oncology Bay, you get doctors and care teams that are part of a national team of experienced cancer doctors. We are sharing best practices and the latest in cancer care treatment and research – bringing the best of oncology to you, close to home. 

If you want to know more about your risk for breast cancer, schedule an appointment with Dr. Moody today.