UT Shines Light on Difficult to Diagnose, Aggressive Type of Breast Cancer

By Christine Long : March 3rd, 2016 In honor of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day, the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center will host an event called “A Different Shade of Pink” Thursday, March 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on The University of Toledo Health Science Campus. “The nature of this disease cries out for more attention and research,” said Dr. Iman Mohamed, UT professor and chief of the Division of Hematology and Oncology. “We hope to educate and empower.” An estimated 15 percent of all diagnosed breast cancers are triple negative breast cancer tumors. This type lacks the three receptors commonly targeted in chemotherapy — estrogen, progesterone and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. The disease is often hard to diagnose because it is common in younger women and not always detected in mammograms. “The receptors known to fuel breast cancer simply aren’t present,” Mohamed said. “Compared to other types of breast cancer, triple negative breast cancers are usually more aggressive and not responsive to targeted therapeutic drugs. Patients have a higher risk of recurrence and a shorter survival rate.” Topics for the “A Different Shade of Pink” program include medical updates related to treatment options and clinical trials, as well as emotional, intimacy and survivorship issues. Paskvan UTMC patient Melissa Paskvan of Toledo was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in 2009 and has been in remission for six years. “I found a lump by accident while scratching an itch at the age of 41,” Paskvan said. “My heart sunk. I knew it was cancer, but I had no idea it would be this rare form. “I went through a lumpectomy, nearly four months of chemotherapy, and 33 rounds of radiation,” she said. “At 48 years old, I am a survivor. I am happy and relieved to have made it past the three-year mark. I only hope my story offers hope to newly diagnosed patients.” To learn more about Paskvan’s story and how she raises money for triple negative breast cancer research, read her blog at mlsspaskvan.blogspot.com. http://utnews.utoledo.edu/index.php/03_03_2016/ut-shines-light-on-difficult-to-diagnose-aggressive-type-of-breast-cancerhttp://utnews.utoledo.edu/index.php/03_03_2016/ut-shines-light-on-difficult-to-diagnose-aggressive-type-of-breast-cancer

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day 2016

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day is March 3, 2016

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day is the only global event dedicated to raising both awareness and funds exclusively for triple negative breast cancer.

Thursday is Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Awareness Day, and I'll be holding my annual online fundraising campaign for TNBC Foundation where 100% donation goes directly to TNBC research. Please consider a donation today to support my cause that I am very passionate about. 

Thank you, Melissa Paskvan
http://tnbcday2016.kintera.org/hope4moretomorrows
"Alone we can do so little, Together we can do so much more." - Helen Keller

Toledo, Ohio Event - A Different Shade of Pink 

http://www.tnbcfoundation.org/tnbcday

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day 2015 at University of Toledo Medical Center

As a TNBC Day Champion chosen by the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation, it was my commitment to support TNBC Day, March 3, 2015 by bringing awareness to this disease, Triple Negative Breast Cancer and our need to find a targeted therapy.  This TNBC subtype affected me 5½ years ago as I fought to triumph over cancer. It wasn't until after my treatments when I realized how greatly my diagnosis had an impact on me to keep telling my story of survival, because I am not the only one that fear the return of TNBC known as a recurrence. There has been numerous research, studies and clinical trials circling around Triple Negative Breast Cancer that led to identifying 7 sub-types of TNBC and early phase clinical trials of the drugs Carboplatin and PARP inhibitors that have shown positive results in metastatic TNBC. Scientists are still learning more  about TNBC, much of it surrounding the genetic make-up of the the tumor itself, and it is my hope that as all this data is being analyzed, a targeted therapy will soon be developed.  As new research data is presented, it is my motivation to keep the TNBC community updated and informed by helping the University of Toledo Medical Center arrange our 2nd annual TNBC Day presentation with several speakers discussing research findings, genetics and survivorship. I started my day with a Mediterranean luncheon at Barada's Restaurant with 2 of my survivor sisters, Jyll and Melissa J; latte's at Bigby's coffee house; TNBC conference discussion ending with a donation jar with offerings to the TNBC Foundation to fund continued research of this disease.  
Also, this is my 3rd straight year in setting up a TNBC Day fundraising page to encourage others to support TNBC day with hosting an event and/or support an existing event in efforts in bringing attention and funding to this disease. This year, I am proud to say that I have personally raised $481 and over $1800 in donations over the past 3 years for my fundraising for TNBC Foundation's research projects. March 31st is the last day to officially support my online fundraising, thank you. http://TNBCDay2015.kintera.org/differentshadeofpink

Girls day with pink sisters Jyll, Melissa J. and Melissa P.

Thank you Dr. Mohamed for making this event possible!

Dr. Helen Mabry discussed Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Displaying my "Hope for More Tomorrows" awareness

TNBC Day 2015 Embraces "Hope for More Tomorrows"

My name is Melissa Paskvan and I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer at age 41. During my treatments I started journaling, documenting my journey through writing and photos which was very therapeutic for me as I coped with my diagnosis.
My writings and content continues today through my blog, "Triple Negative Breast Cancer, I Won't Back Down!", reaching out to women across the globe, to give them hope and strength to fight; and to provide resources to educate my readers about TNBC.

http://TNBCDay2015.kintera.org/differentshadeofpink

You see, this disease is not about me, it's about us... all of us are trying to make sense of this TNBC sub-type as new research emerges only to learn that this disease is even more complicated and a targeted treatment is yet to be discovered. As a 5 year survivor, my fight is not over until all of us TNBC sisters are safe. The fear of recurrence is real, me and my TNBC sisters all fear it. I've seen too many TNBC sisters depart after exhausting many clinical trials and a fierce tiring battle. That is why I am so passionate about keeping TNBC awareness in the forefront and continue to encourage breast self-exams as early detection is critical in TNBC survival. I am a huge supporter of the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation and am very grateful for their continued dedication to all survivors and families as a credible source of information, support network and for their commitment to funding scientists researching Triple Negative Breast Cancer.
I am honored to join The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation as a TNBC Day Champion, as I focus my energy to educate young women on the importance of breast health; and efforts to raise funds to support research in need of finding our targeted therapy. Please join us in making an impact today! Embrace hope, Hope for more tomorrows... 
Click on link to make a donation supporting my event and The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation on TNBC Day March 3, 2015. 
http://TNBCDay2015.kintera.org/differentshadeofpink

All online donations are automatically and directed to the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation safely upon submission and TNBCF will dedicate 100% of funds to research.
 
Thank you kindly, Melissa Paskvan

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much" - Helen Keller 

"A Different Shade of Pink", Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day 2015

TRIPLE NEGATIVE BREAST CANCER
“A Different Shade of Pink”

Conquer triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) on TNBC day - March 3, 2015!  Join the faculty and staff of UTMC’s Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center for an evening of fun and education.  Learn about the latest TNBC issues and treatments, including how to stay healthy!

When:        Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Time:        Social Hour (5:30 PM), Program 6-7:30 PM
Location:    Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center (Atrium) on
The University of Toledo Health Science Campus,
1325 Conference Drive (off Glendale Ave), 
Toledo, OH 43614

Topics Include:    Treatment Options, Clinical Trials, Genetic Testing, 
The Role of Exercise, Survivorship Services and more.
Come join us for food, fellowship, and fun!

Please call 419-383-5170 to RSVP or send an e-mail to Janelle.Tipton@utoledo.edu by Friday, February 27.  We look forward to seeing you for this special event to educate and empower!

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day 2015: Meet Our Champions

Melissa Paskvan/OH
Blogger and TNBC Survivor

My name is Melissa Paskvan and I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer at age 41. During my treatments I started journaling, documenting my journey through writing and photos which was very therapeutic for me as I coped with my diagnosis.
My writings and content continues today through my blog, "Triple Negative Breast Cancer, I Won't Back Down!", reaching out to women across the globe, to give them hope and strength to fight; and to provide resources to educate my readers about TNBC.
You see, this disease is not about me, it's about us... all of us are trying to make sense of this TNBC sub-type as new research emerges only to learn that this disease is even more complicated and a targeted treatment is yet to be discovered. As a 5 year survivor, my fight is not over until all of us TNBC sisters are safe. The fear of recurrence is real, me and my TNBC sisters all fear it. I've seen too many TNBC sisters depart after exhausting many clinical trials and a fierce tiring battle. That is why I am so passionate about keeping TNBC awareness in the forefront and continue to encourage breast self-exams as early detection is critical in TNBC survival. I am a huge supporter of the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation and am very grateful for their continued dedication to all survivors and families as a credible source of information, support network and for their commitment to funding scientists researching Triple Negative Breast Cancer.
I am honored to join The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation as a TNBC Day Champion, as I focus my energy to educate young women on the importance of breast health; and efforts to raise funds to support research in need of finding our targeted therapy. Please join us in making an impact today! Embrace hope, Hope for more tomorrows... 
Click on link to make a donation supporting my event and The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation on TNBC Day March 3, 2015. 
http://TNBCDay2015.kintera.org/differentshadeofpink 

Thank you, Melissa Paskvan

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much" - Helen Keller 

Click link to read more champion stories: 
 http://www.tnbcfoundation.org/tnbcday2015/champions.htm#samuels 

Coming Soon... Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day 3.3.2015!

What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day?
3-3-15 is the third Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day — a national day of awareness and grassroots fundraising events to help eradicate triple negative breast cancers and assist those impacted by the disease. It's a serious day, but the tone is positive as we celebrate all those who join our efforts in tackling the next frontier in breast cancer.
While significant progress has been made in breast cancer research, there is shockingly little known about triple negative cancers, even though they impact up to 1 in 5 women diagnosed with breast cancer. TNBC does not have any of the known treatment receptors — meaning that many of the advances in breast cancer treatment don't work for women diagnosed with TNBC.
How do I get involved?
We are asking you — our community and supporters — to plan or join fundraisers and awareness events in each state across the country to take place on — or leading up to 3.3.15. Events of all sizes and types are welcome! You don't need to be a professional fundraiser. The most successful events tie into something that you love: from walking to yoga or lattes to cupcakes. Do what you love and your friends, family and community will follow! The most successful events tend to be the simplest.

Click link to register your event:
http://www.tnbcfoundation.org/tnbcday2015/hostanevent.htm 

TNBCDay 2014 with Dr. Mohamed at UTMC

What started as an email I sent to my oncologist seeking their input of what more can we do to raise awareness of Triple Negative Breast Cancer for TNBC Awareness Day... 
Dr. Mohamed and the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC) put together a very well-organized and educational program with several speakers sharing information on various survivorship topics. I was excited when my Oncology Nurse had asked me to be one of the speakers and talk about moving pass breast cancer and being a voice for TNBC. I had a few of my TNBC sisters present from our support group which was very nice. Thank you Dr. Mohamed, Jan Tipton and all of the UTMC speakers in making this conference a success in bringing awareness to our local community.

My Story...
My name is Melissa and I am a 4 year Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivor. In 2009, I found my lump by chance when I felt something under my breast. My mammogram did NOT detect my 2cm tumor because of having dense breast tissues. It was thought to be just a cyst, but I insisted on a needle biopsy right then and there. Then I received the dreaded call from my doctor. I'm 41 and I have breast cancer.  I learned that I had a rare and aggressive form of cancer that doesn't respond to hormone therapy, Triple Negative Breast Cancer. 
I spoke of early detection and the importance of self-breast exams and that TNBC tumors are not always detected on mammogram.  I spoke of TNBC is striking young women as early as age 24 that I personally know of. 

Moving forward after cancer... 
Nearing the end of my treatments I felt lost, life after cancer treatments was a lot harder than when I was going through it. People seem to think that when you're done with treatments and is cancer free that it's done and over, put it behind you, things can go back to normal... Only if it was that easy. I've struggled some... the life I once had, there's no going back to...

The Victory Center...
I turned to a local cancer wellness center for support, trying to figure out my new "normal" and live again.  I immediately got involved in their Breast Cancer Support Group where I was surrounded by people who didn't mind talking about cancer, sharing stories and who "get it."  The support group has helped me rejuvenate my self-image and ease the transition that I've been going through.

People I've met along the way...
I have met several other TNBC Survivors through an online support group and bonded with several of the women. I have met up with TNBC Sisters at different conferences, support groups and have traveled from as far as Maryland, Kentucky, North Carolina and California to meet up with my TNBC ladies.

My Blog...
I have created a blog, "Triple Negative Breast Cancer, I Won't Back Down!" documenting my journey to keep my family and friends informed of my prognosis. Journalizing was therapeutical for me as a way of expressing my feelings on the journey I'm on. My blogs expresses how I moved forward with postings and photos of breast cancer events that I participated in, meeting other breast cancer survivors and living life again. After treatments were over, I wanted to turn my blog into a more of an informational and inspirational site for TNBC awareness; posting latest research articles, inspiring stories and memorials on my TNBC pink sisters.  With my blog site, I have reached out to people all over the world reaching many countries in every continent with over 133,000 views to my site. My hope is that my site will help others to have hope, give them the strength to fight and to provide resources to get them the information they need to know about this TNBC subtype.

Our Sisterhood... 
We are an unique Sisterhood that are bonded by our uncommon disease.
I keep fighting for those that are still fighting, those that are too weak to fight and those that can no longer fight. I stand next to each and everyone of you sisters and fight, my fight is not over till all of my sisters are safe. Never lose sight of hope.  Have hope for a targeted therapy, and hope for more tomorrows. 

Quote from TNBC sister who passed at the age of 35:

"Our support group, we are never just one alone... The fears, the tears, the stress, the anxiety, the worry, and the pain are shared among all of us women in our group."

Dr. Mohamed

Melissa showing where she found her lump

YES!

Pink Sisters, Jyll and I LIVING LIFE!

My pink ladies Jyll, Melissa, Rita and Diane

6 Things To Know About Triple Negative Breast Cancer (Infographic)

TNBC sister, Ann Pietrangelo had written an article published on Care2.com in regards to TNBCDay 3.3.2014 on some basic facts of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) . The point that Ann wanted to get across to her readers is that breast cancer is not a single disease. There are several subtypes of breast cancer with TNBC being aggressive and lacking in long term treatment.

Ann quoted me in her article on the positives of my TNBC journey:

"TNBC survivor Melissa Paskvan says, “I have met many amazing TNBC survivors throughout my journey that I consider as my extended family. We TNBC sisters, we ‘get it.’ We are a unique Sisterhood bonded by our uncommon disease and I embrace it.”

"Ms. Paskvan continues, “I keep fighting alongside those who are still fighting, those who are too weak to fight, and for those who can no longer fight. My fight is not over until all of my sisters are safe. Never lose sight of hope, hope to find our targeted therapy and hope for more tomorrows.”

Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/6-things-to-know-about-triple-negative-breast-cancer-infographic.html#ixzz2z0eCvWrM

MY TNBCDay Fundraising for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation

My TNBC online fundraising event closes at the end of the month, March 31, 2014. I have raised thus far $670 towards funding in our hope in finding our targeted therapy.

TNBC Sisters Unite for Hope for More Tomorrows http://tnbcday2014.kintera.org/tnbcsistersunite_melissa 

"Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much." - Helen Keller

My Visit for TNBCDay 2014 Informational Session with Dr. Lisa Newman

On March 3, 2014, the day where TNBC Awareness is nationally recognized with many grassroots events planned in support of bringing awareness to Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Any money raised during these events and online events will be donated to the TNBC Foundation in it's efforts in funding research to help find our targeted therapy for TNBC.  I started a fun day off by attending an informational session with my pink sister, Jyll up in Dearborn, MI with Dr. Lisa Newman, a very well respected oncologist from the University of Michigan Medical Hospital, who has done extensive research on TNBC in African-American women. I also had the pleasure of meeting up with my TNBC sister, Maureen from my online support group. I was very excited to meet Maureen and she was so sweet to talk to.

“Triple Negative Breast Cancer is one pattern of the disease, but it is one that we have to have a heightened sense of awareness,”  - Dr. Newman said.

My notes from the session:

- Basal-Like  and TNBC tumors have a  80% overlap
- Carboplatin drug treatment is more effective in TNBC tumors
- Latest research: Androgen receptor (marker)
- 30% of TNBC patients will have an recurrence

TNBC Mets
Brain - 30%
Liver - 40%
Lung - 20%
Bone - 10%

Who does TNBC affect?
White-American - 16%
African-American - 26%
Ghana-African - 82%

TNBC Frequency
Young women
African-American
Hereditary
Palpable breast lump 
Chemo therapy 
Mets to Brain 
Less likely to recur after 5 years.

Obesity linked to risk of TNBC: Stay fit, eat well balanced diet
   

Pink sister, Jyll and Melissa

TNBC sister, Maureen and Melissa

Melissa and Dr. Lisa Newman

Us TNBCDay supporters with Dr. Lisa Newman

http://www.at.ford.com/news/TeamContent/Pages/GFTCTriple-Negative-Breast-Cancer-Awareness-Day-Observed-at-Ford-Research-and-Innovation-Center.aspx  
(Click link to story)

http://www.michigancancer.org/AboutTheMCC/MembersInTheNews/LisaNewman-DelvingAfricanGeneticsBrCaResearch-June2012.cfm 
(Click link to Dr. Newman's research)

The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation Visits the New York Stock Exchange

The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation visited the NYSE Euronext and rang the opening bell this morning in honor of TNBC Day.

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day as TNBC Sisters Unite Take a Stand for Hope for more Tomorrow

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Sisters Unite Take a Stand for Hope for More Tomorrows. We are young, we are the faces of TNBC! Honor a loved one affected by TNBC with a donation to Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. Thank you, Melissa Paskvan http://tnbcday2014.kintera.org/tnbcsistersunite_melissa

TNBC Sisters Unite for Hope for more Tomorrow!

Pins for a Purpose, Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day 3.3.14

My Story of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day in Toledo at UTMC on 3.3.14

Public invited to learn about aggressive subtype of breast cancer; RSVP by Feb. 28
By Samantha Watson : February 25th, 2014

The most successful breast cancer treatments target three receptors, but what happens when none of these receptors are present?

That’s the case in patients who are diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, a rare and sometimes aggressive subtype of breast cancer. Their condition is the focus of a new public outreach effort.

The University of Toledo Medical Center will host “A Different Shade of Pink” Monday, March 3, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in recognition of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day to educate the public about the disease. The event will be held at the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center.

Triple negative breast cancer occurs when estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 — the three receptors known to fuel breast cancer — aren’t present.

Because only 15 of every 100 breast cancer diagnoses are triple negative, many are unaware of what the disease entails and what options are available for treatment. The disease also is often hard to diagnose because it is more common in younger women and is not always detected in mammograms.

“I had a friend pass away from triple negative breast cancer a year ago at age 26,” said Melissa Paskvan, UT Medical Center patient who was diagnosed with this type of breast cancer in 2009 and has been in remission for four years. “A lot of people think it’s a grandma’s disease, but it’s not. It could strike anyone at any time.”

Topics for the “A Different Shade of Pink” event will include treatment options, clinical trials, genetic testing, the role of exercise, survivorship services and more. The event will begin with a social hour and food with the program starting at 6 p.m.

“One of the important roles of an academic medical center like UTMC is education and outreach,” said Dr. Iman Mohamed, associate dean of medical school admissions and chief of the UTMC Division of Hematology and Oncology. “We invite anyone impacted by triple negative breast cancer or those curious about the disease to attend this event and learn more about it.”

“I hope people walk out of this feeling more informed of this disease and the treatments available,” Paskvan said.

To hear Paskvan’s story, read her blog at mlsspaskvan.blogspot.com. Paskvan also is raising money for triple negative breast cancer; donations can be made at tnbcday2014.kintera.org/tnbcsistersunite_melissa.

To RSVP to the “A Different Shade of Pink” event, email Janelle Tipton, oncology clinical nurse specialist, at Janelle.Tipton@utoledo.edu by Friday, Feb. 28.

UT News » Blog Archive » Public invited to learn about aggressive subtype of breast cancer; RSVP by Feb. 28

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day, INAUGURAL 3.3.13

Join us in the fight! Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day is a national awareness day to be held on 3-3-13. The mission of this iconic inaugural event is for the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation to bring together communities across our nation to plan fundraisers and awareness events in each state to take place on (or around) Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day. Events of all sizes are welcome! Start planning your event or find an event in your area:
http://www.tnbcfoundation.org/tnbcday 

http://www.examiner.com/article/triple-negative-breast-cancer-foundation-announces-inaugural-tncb-day-3-3-13 ( Click link to story)