Lori Cote's life took an unexpected turn on March 27, 2012, when a routine mammogram led to a shocking diagnosis. The doctor's suspicion of cancer immediately shattered any expectations of routine results. For Lori, who was 49 at the time, the shock of the diagnosis was coupled with the profound realization of her mortality. Her first thoughts centered on her daughter, then an 11th-grader.  “I began to pray for a good result and that I would live long enough to see her graduate high school,” she said.

The Battle of Diagnostics

Lori's journey through diagnosis was fraught with challenges. Dense breast tissue complicated the biopsy process, leading to several unsuccessful attempts. Amid this uncertainty, Lori chose to keep her ordeal private, shouldering the emotional weight herself. Only when she finally confided in her family, friends, and colleagues did they reveal that they had sensed something was amiss.

A Breakthrough in Technology

The introduction of Tomosynthesis marked a turning point in Lori's diagnostic journey. This advanced imaging technique successfully guided the way to a conclusive biopsy and confirmed the presence of cancer. With the diagnosis in hand, Lori felt a strange sense of relief that she could finally start the battle against the disease in earnest.

Navigating the Treatment Landscape

Following the confirmed diagnosis, Lori faced a flurry of medical consultations, each offering different treatment paths. The Breast Surgeon recommended a double mastectomy due to Lori's age, while the Radiation Oncologist advocated for a lumpectomy. Amidst these varied opinions, Lori decided on a lumpectomy, a choice that ultimately set her on a course to reclaim her life.

The Surgery and Beyond

Lori's lumpectomy was scheduled for Friday the 13th of July 2012 – a day that held no fear for her. “Meeting with the surgeon on Tuesday, he asked if I was superstitious and would Friday, the 13th be okay for surgery. I told him 13 has always been my lucky number,” she said.

The procedure was successful, and the news couldn't have been better: the cancer was in its early stages, had not spread to her lymph nodes, and was estrogen-based.

Radiation and the Road to Healing

After the surgery, Lori embarked on six weeks of radiation therapy. Choosing the first appointment each day allowed her to balance her treatment with her work responsibilities. The radiation brought its own challenges, including exhaustion. However, Lori's determination helped to motivate her through the treatment.

Celebrating Triumph

On July 13, 2023, Lori celebrated a milestone that marked the culmination of her arduous journey – her 11-year anniversary of being cancer-free. Her experience stands as a beacon of hope for those grappling with their own cancer journeys, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is strength within to conquer adversity.

When asked about lessons that she’s learned from her battle, Lori says, “I work to live in a place of perspective and gratitude. In the end it is not about material items you have or the negatives you encounter. It is about your experience, the love and happiness you find along the way.”