Kansas City, KS- Courtney Flanagan, 34, was diagnosed with stage three, triple-negative inflammatory breast cancer just four months after giving birth. She underwent extensive treatment at the University of Kansas Cancer Center, and her experience highlights the importance of early detection and self-advocacy. Inspired by her journey, she and her husband made a significant donation to support the Center’s breast cancer program.
Mackenzie Seelbach, Nurse Navigator, The University of Kansas Cancer Center
• Highlighted the nurse navigator’s role as a first point of contact, helping patients process a new diagnosis, access resources, and move quickly into care.
• Underscored the importance of patients seeking evaluation promptly if they notice any breast changes.
Dr. Jamie Wagner Breast Surgical Oncologist, The University of Kansas Cancer
• Emphasized that inflammatory breast cancer is rare but aggressive, often presenting without a lump and instead with skin changes like redness, swelling, and “orange peel” texture.
• Stressed the importance of self-advocacy and early evaluation, noting that timely diagnosis and a coordinated, multi-treatment approach are critical to improving outcomes.
Courtney Flanagan, Patient
• New mom Courtney Flanagan quickly acted on unusual breast changes, leading to a stage three, triple-negative inflammatory breast cancer diagnosis.
• After extensive treatment, she is now cancer-free and raising awareness about early detection and self-advocacy.
