Michele Klimke has been a dedicated medical dosimetrist for forty years and joined the Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada (Comprehensive) team in 2007. With extensive experience in developing and managing radiation plans for patients undergoing cancer treatment, she never anticipated finding herself on the other side of the machine.
After undergoing a routine mammogram, Michele received her results and was advised by her radiologist to have a biopsy “just to be safe.” The biopsy revealed ductal carcinoma in the upper outer quadrant of her left breast, the most common location for breast cancer, with studies showing that one-third of cases occur in this area. At the age of 54, Michele was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer.
When Michele received the news, she was working. Her primary care physician said, “I normally don’t call people at work, but I know you would want to know: your biopsy came back positive.”
Initially, Michele felt a wave of numbness over her, but her professional background quickly kicked in, propelling her into action. After decades of managing cancer plans for others, she knew exactly what to expect next and what needed to be done.
Without hesitation, Michele got up from her desk and ran to Dr. Andrew Cohen’s office. He is a radiation oncologist at Comprehensive and is now Practice President. In a surreal moment, she shared the news with him.
Due to company policy, she couldn’t receive treatment at the same facility where she worked, so she emailed Dr. Farzaneh Farzin, another radiation oncologist at Comprehensive, to see if she would be willing to treat her. The response was simple yet life-changing, “Yes, of course!”
There was no time to waste, and, as with any patient, Comprehensive had her first appointment scheduled as quickly as possible. Reflecting on the experience, Michele feels grateful for how quickly everything unfolded and appreciates working for an organization that prioritizes the well-being of its employees during challenging times.
Thirteen years later, Michele’s scans are all clear, and she firmly believes she had an angel by her side during her diagnosis. Her story might have taken a different turn if her radiologist had not been so thorough.
Michele shares that the person she was before her cancer diagnosis is different from who she is post-cancer. The experience has deepened her empathy for the breast cancer patients she now helps treat. She can genuinely tell them, “I understand you’re terrified because I’ve been in your shoes.”
Today, Michele no longer requires diagnostic treatment and undergoes annual screening mammograms to ensure her continued health. In her free time, she is a scuba diver, cherishes the moments she gets to spend with her two grandchildren, and appreciates each new day. Statistically, she now has no greater chance of developing breast cancer than any other woman.
Her advice to others diagnosed with cancer is simple: “Be kind to yourself. Allow your feelings to come and go because they will, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”