Survivor story: Brenda Hanle

Brenda Hanle was just a little overdue for her annual mammogram when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2014.

"I was only about four months late," she says.

She assumed it would be a routine mammogram, as she showed no symptoms of breast cancer.

But, the mammogram showed a small lump.

"It was about the size of a peanut," Hanle says.

She chose her surgeon, set a date for surgery and was able to have a lumpectomy.

"I had chemo for what I call 'my insurance policy,'" says Hanle. "Then, I had about 33 or 34 rounds of radiation, which only took about 10 minutes a day. I am now cancer-free."

Hanle was very pleased with the care she was given during her treatment.

"From the people who did the lab work, to my surgeon, Dr. Sarah Colwick, to [my oncologist], Dr. Olivia Aranha, my care was top notch," says Hanle. "I asked them to treat me like a family member, and they did."

Hanle required very little time off work, having the surgery on a Thursday and returning to work the following Monday.

She was optimistic through the entire procedure.

"I didn't worry; I knew I had great physicians and caregivers and my employer was very supportive," she says. "I believe my care was organized by the Great Physician. I had my own personal miracle."

Hanle also believes her surgery and recovery went well because she followed her doctors' instructions.

"I did everything my doctors said to do," she says. "And, a good outlook is half the battle."

Hanle encourages women to be strong if they are diagnosed with breast cancer.

"They should take charge and speak up. Don't be afraid of knowledge," she says.

Hanle, who lives in Cape Girardeau, has worked at Saint Francis Medical Center for 25 years. She is the director of health information management -- business office, registration center and privacy officer.