Kansas City, Kan- Tammy Sigurdson-Martinez, a mother of five, was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram. Following surgery and radiation, she celebrated the end of treatment, only to be diagnosed with melanoma a week later. Her family history of cancer and genetic testing revealed no predisposing mutations.

Tammy's treatment included immunotherapy with Keytruda, which significantly reduced lymph node size. Her doctors emphasized the importance of early detection and routine mammograms, noting that stage one breast cancer has a 99-100% survival rate at five years.

Tammy Sigurdson-Martinez, patient

• Tammy describes her initial reaction to hearing the word "cancer" and the subsequent removal of cancer in five lymph nodes.
• In November, Tammy rang the bell marking the end of her breast cancer treatment, but a week later, she was diagnosed with melanoma.
• She emphasizes the importance of getting up and doing her best, despite her health challenges.

Dr. Kelly Rhodes-Stark, Radiation Oncologist, The University of Kansas Cancer Center-Olathe

• Dr. Kelly Rhodes-Stark explains the importance of targeted radiation for early-stage breast cancer and the benefits of not having to treat the whole breast.
• She emphasizes the emotional and physical benefits of having family support during cancer treatment.

Dr. Larry Corum, Medical Oncologist, The University of Kansas Cancer Center- Olathe

•  Dr. Larry Corum discusses the initial suspicion of recurrent breast cancer and the eventual diagnosis of melanoma.
• He discusses the effectiveness of immunotherapy before surgery for melanoma, based on a clinical trial.

Monday, October 20th is the next Morning Medical Update:

KC Current President’s Message to Women about Breast Cancer

The president of the KC Current is sharing her breast cancer diagnosis and why early detection is so important. Raven Jemison is a leader on and off the soccer field. Hear her message for all women.

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