Finding Strength in Compassion: Glenda's Breast Cancer Battle

Glenda was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 during the pandemic.

She never had symptoms of cancer, and she had no family history of the disease.

“It was sobering. Nobody wants to hear that word,” Glenda said. “And I think when it occurred during COVID, it had an additional emotional impact on me.”

Glenda faced a lumpectomy procedure and many of the 19 radiation treatments while her family often waited in the car, unable to give needed support as Glenda walked into the hospital.

However, Glenda found comfort with medical staff at CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Cancer Center.

“I think it was even more important to me to have that family-like support from the Cabrini team,” Glenda said. “You couldn't really have your family by your side, but you really do need someone with you during those procedures.”

Compassionate Care

After her lumpectomy, a surgery that targets and removes the cancerous tumor along with a small margin of healthy tissue around it, Glenda faced an unexpected complication.

About eight hours after surgery, a hematoma developed, a common but serious condition where blood collects outside of blood vessels, leading to swelling. This occurred near her surgical stitches, within the breast tissue, intensifying concerns.

She hurried to the emergency room. Again, her family could not go in with her.

When she arrived, her CHRISTUS doctor was there waiting for her.

Lawrence Menache, MD, who specializes in radiation oncology and family medicine, stayed at the emergency room by her side until the surgeon arrived and Glenda received the care she needed.

“Dr. Menache was holding my hand and trying to really keep me encouraged and keep things moving ahead,” Glenda said. "Having my doctor by my side, walking me through what was happening, meant everything."

Positive Signs

After the hematoma, Glenda went through treatment. After six months, Glenda began receiving encouraging reports from her doctors. Soon, she was in remission.

By the spring of 2022, things started to go back to normal.

“It could have turned out much worse had I not had that personal connection to those caregivers,” Glenda said.

Soon, Glenda was able to commit to her community again in Alexandria.

At 75 years old, she owns her own consulting business, Grits. She is a member of the Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and 100 Women Who Care and is also president of the board of the LSU Foundation.

“And I’ve slowed down a lot!” Glenda said.

Words of Wisdom

Despite these challenges, Glenda believes you are never truly alone and always have support to continue moving forward. 

“And for whatever reason, God has a different plan than we have, but he never abandons you,” Glenda said. “He always keeps you encouraged, and he always gives me a reason to keep pedaling on and heading forward.”