Darci’s Story: Facing Breast Cancer with Strength and Gratitude

My name is Darci Lewis, and I am 54 years old. I am married to my husband, Mike, and have a son (27) and a daughter (14).

My “cancer story” begins in 2017 when I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Because it was very small and with consultation with my Oncologist and Surgeon, I opted for the lumpectomy and six (6) weeks of radiation. The surgery was a success with clear margins and lymph nodes.

Radiation began shortly after and went rather well until week 4 and 5 when I was burning and in pain. It was the hardest part of my cancer journey thus far. Thank goodness for a long holiday weekend and some burn cream that helped me get through my last week of radiation.

I had follow-up appointments every 3 months with my Medical Oncologist, Surgical Oncologist, and Radiation Oncologist and received a mammogram every 6 months. All in all, things were going very well, and my prognosis was looking good!

Almost two (2) years later, in April 2019, we were moving into a new house when I got really sick with what seemed like a bad cold. As I was trying to recover, my symptoms got worse, including double and blurred vision, making it hard for me to see and even walk.

I ended up in the ER and was admitted to the hospital. After many tests, it was determined that I not only had the Rhinovirus but also the Norovirus. It seemed my immune system was attacking my nervous system and had paralyzed my eyes, as I could not move them at all.

I was finally diagnosed with Miller Fisher Syndrome (an autoimmune disorder) and treated with IVIG treatments for five (5) days. I was in the hospital for six (6) days and was very weak and unable to walk without assistance.

While recovering at home, I had to attend physical and occupational therapy to build strength, balance, and improve my vision as my pupils started moving again.

During this time, I noticed a fullness in my upper abdomen and mentioned it to my family doctor at a follow-up visit. She immediately ordered blood tests and a CT scan. My liver enzymes were extremely high, and my scan showed masses in my liver.

I received a call informing me that it could be cancer and was referred back to my Oncologist. A liver biopsy, PET scan, and additional tests confirmed I had many masses, with a poor prognosis.

The pathology report was inconclusive and was sent to Cleveland Clinic for further testing. My Oncologist recommended seeking a second opinion at IU, which brought us peace of mind.

At IU, the liver oncologist determined it wasn’t liver cancer but believed it was Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer. He supported my Oncologist’s aggressive chemotherapy plan to treat both breast and liver cancers.

I began receiving chemotherapy on July 8th, even before my port was installed. I handled it well initially but experienced low white cell counts and hemoglobin, requiring transfusions and booster injections.

By September, my PET scan showed a 20% reduction in tumor size. However, in October, low counts prevented me from receiving treatment for five weeks, which was disheartening.

In November, treatments resumed with a reduced chemo regimen focused only on breast cancer. Another PET scan showed continued improvement.

I have now received 17 chemotherapy treatments and will have another PET scan in February. I stay committed to a plant-based diet, reducing sugar, and staying hydrated.

It’s been a rough journey, but my family and I feel extremely blessed with supportive friends, doctors, nurses, and our community. Whether through meals, rides, prayers, or organizing the incredible “Do it for Darci” benefit, we cannot thank everyone enough.

Cancer changes your life instantly. The love and support we’ve received during this time have been the most amazing experience of all. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.