Breast Cancer Can Affect Men, Too: Jim’s Story

For Pewaukee resident Jim Kruswicki, life has always been about staying active and enjoying the moment. When he is not working as a real estate agent, he can be found boating on Pewaukee Lake, playing golf and spending time with family.

Then, one evening in late summer 2024, Jim had been relaxing in his recliner when something unusual popped into his head. “I could have sworn I overheard a story about men with breast cancer airing on TV that night,” Jim recalled. So, before going to bed, he decided to perform a breast self-exam. He instantly noticed something unusual— a lump. 

A surprising breast cancer diagnosis

His wife, Vicki, encouraged him to call his primary care physician, Dr. Mark Horneffer, the next morning. Jim did, and Dr. Horneffer quickly arranged an appointment and testing. Within days, he met with Dr. Hanadi BuAli, director of the Breast Health Program at Ascension Wisconsin, who informed Jim that he had breast cancer. The diagnosis was difficult to absorb, but Jim and his Ascension care team moved quickly. Determined not to lose valuable time, Jim underwent a mastectomy performed by Dr. BuAli just 24 hours after his diagnosis. “It was a blessing,” Jim said of the quick course of action by his doctors.

Expert care through challenging treatment

Following his mastectomy, Jim began four months of chemotherapy at Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital - Elmbrook - Sherman Cancer Center. Although treatment was physically demanding—causing hair loss and significant bone pain—Jim’s Ascension care team provided compassionate support at every step. When his pain became too severe to manage at home, the team cared for him in the emergency department and helped him continue his journey toward remission. 

Finding support at every turn

Even during the hardest parts of treatment, Jim felt supported by his friends and family. Friends and acquaintances at the golf course checked on him. Doctors who knew him brought food and words of encouragement. He described the support of his wife, Vicki, as “truly amazing. She waited on me hand and foot.”

The finish line: a cancer-free life

After treatment, when Jim received confirmation that he was finally cancer-free, he felt overwhelming relief. “Thank God,” Jim said when he learned that he was in remission. “It was good. I felt a heck of a lot better - just a peace of mind.”

Today, Jim is grateful to be moving forward. “I keep trucking along and keep doing things I enjoy. That’s what it’s all about.”

Jim’s advice to fellow men: don’t wait to get care

Jim’s experience changed the way he thinks about his health. He now encourages other men not to dismiss changes in their bodies. He said: “I tell other men to go see their doctor if they notice any kind of minor problem. It’s better to get seen rather than waiting.”

Jim hopes his story will remind men that breast cancer is not only a women’s health issue. Although breast cancer in men is less common, it can happen, and early detection can make a difference. A simple self-exam changed Jim’s life—leading to an early diagnosis and lifesaving treatment. Now, he’s sharing his story to encourage others to prioritize preventive health and seek early intervention for health concerns—big or small.

Learn about state-of-the-art breast cancer care and treatment with Ascension Wisconsin.