How a 35-year-old overcame triple positive breast cancer

At just 35 years old, Brittany, a first-grade teacher in Pensacola and mother of two, was blindsided when she discovered a lump in her breast. “When I heard the words ‘you have cancer,’ my world turned upside down,” she said.

Shortly after her diagnosis, Brittany was referred to Dr. Alexander Brown, medical oncologist at Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Center. She was facing triple positive invasive ductal carcinoma, a fast-growing form of breast cancer. The treatment plan included 18 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and targeted therapy.

What stood out most to Brittany was the way Dr. Brown guided her through every step. “Dr. Brown went above and beyond, patiently explaining every detail of my treatment plan,” she said. “He gave me the courage and hope I needed to face this journey.”

Dr. Brown said listening and compassion are at the heart of his approach. “Every patient deserves clear communication and the reassurance that they are not alone,” he explained. “While advanced treatments are critical, so is the trust and connection we build during one of the hardest times of their life.”

Brittany recalls the care she received not just from Dr. Brown, but also from the entire cancer center team. Nurses became trusted companions, offering encouragement, privacy, and even small gifts that reminded her she wasn’t fighting alone. Social workers provided emotional support that helped her regain her confidence and strength.

“From day one, I felt like the staff truly cared about me as a person, not just a patient,” Brittany said. “They reminded me that I was never fighting this battle alone.”

Today, Brittany is cancer free and credits her care team for giving her both medical expertise and emotional strength. “I never knew how strong I was until this journey,” she said. “With Dr. Brown and the team by my side, I always felt supported.”

At Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Center, patients like Brittany receive advanced treatment with compassion, connection, and hope. Learn more or schedule care with Dr. Brown.