How a Routine Screening Became a Lifesaving Diagnosis
Every cancer journey is unique, filled with challenges and moments that shape lives in unexpected ways. For Amy Stango, an occupational therapist for UPMC Home Health, her story began with a routine check-up.
Amy, now 47, had been diligent about her health, getting annual mammograms for the past decade. She had grown accustomed to the occasional callback, but everything always turned out fine. However, on July 21, 2022, that pattern changed.
“I got a call back and assumed it would be the same, everything would be okay. I would show up and they would do an ultrasound and diagnostic mammogram and send me home,” Amy says. “But then they told me that I had cancer. I was in shock.”
Navigating the Diagnosis
Amy's initial diagnosis of cancer came from another facility, but she decided to seek a second opinion at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital.
“When I called about making an appointment, I got a callback from a nurse navigator within a couple of days, and she already had all my appointments set up for one day. It was so easy, and they were so knowledgeable, I didn’t experience that kind of care anywhere else, and that was just over the phone!” Amy says.
Meeting her new care team at UPMC Magee reinforced her decision to seek care there. Amy was treated by Dr. Priscilla McAuliffe, surgical oncologist, and Dr. Adam Brufsky, medical oncologist, co-director of the Magee-Womens Breast Cancer Program, and medical director of the Magee-Womens Cancer Program.
“When I met [my surgeon] Dr. McAuliffe, she came with drawings and notes and she explained from the very foundation what breast cancer is, what happens, and how they treat it. She gave me percentages, statistics, options ‘ABC’ for treatment,” Amy says. “And then when I met Dr. Brufsky, I was ecstatic. He answered every one of my questions and took the time to listen to me, and I was amazed at how knowledgeable my care team was.”
Diagnosed with stage 2A invasive ductal carcinoma, Amy faced the aggressive nature of triple-negative breast cancer. With five tumors and a malignant lymph node, her treatment plan was intense.
“I was terrified,” Amy shares. “But walking out of [UPMC Magee], I felt a relief I didn’t feel anywhere else. I had a good feeling about them and knew they had me.”
Undergoing Treatment
Amy's treatment journey began on August 25, 2022, consisting of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, a double mastectomy, and then reconstructive surgery with plastic surgeon, Dr. Vu T. Nguyen.
Despite facing multiple setbacks and hospitalizations, Amy pressed on.
“The treatment was grueling, but I knew I had to fight for my kids. I couldn’t let cancer take me away from them,” Amy says. “When I got my results [from the mastectomy], every tissue sample came back cancer-free. Achieving a pathological complete response was the best news I could have hoped for."
Amy then began radiation with Dr. John Austin Vargo IV, radiation oncologist and medical director of radiation oncology at UPMC Magee. "He explained that radiation was like cleaning up glitter after an art project with kids; it was about making sure no tiny pieces were left behind."
Amy's return to work on January 29, 2024, marked a significant milestone in her journey.
“Taking a year and a half off work was necessary but returning felt like reclaiming a part of my life,” Amy says.
After a 2-year battle with cancer, Amy urges everyone to stay proactive about their health:
“Get your annual mammograms! I had no pain, no lump, I had no idea. Getting my screenings saved my life.”
Finding Community in Advocacy
In October 2023, Amy was recognized as a cancer survivor on stage at the 6th Annual Women Who Rock Benefit Concert – an event that empowers female musicians and raises awareness and funds for lifesaving women’s health research at Magee-Womens. This inspiring experience ignited her passion for advocacy and led Amy to become a committee member for Women Who Rock ™.
“If I never had cancer, I never would have known about these incredible organizations and what they are doing for women’s health. I honestly think I had cancer to become an advocate. It’s incredible to give back and support others going through similar experiences,” Amy says. “If you are navigating cancer, know that there is hope. Never give up, stay positive, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.”
Amy thanks those who supported her every step of the way, “To God, Magee and my doctors, my family, and friends, I could not have done it without you.”