As Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, Marathon hair stylist and cancer survivor Chrissy Caldwell champions the importance of early breast cancer detection. Having personally discovered a breast lump that initially evaded mammographic detection, she passionately advocates for proactive screenings, even for those who may feel reluctant.
“It’s definitely a scary thing that nobody really talks about,” said Caldwell. “I think that’s why a lot of women don’t go to get mammograms because they are afraid of the results. They would honestly rather not know. This is just crazy to me. The earlier the cancer is detected, the easier it is to get rid of.”
In 2021, Caldwell was diagnosed with aggressive Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), a distinct subtype characterized by rapid growth, limited treatment options and unfavorable prognosis. Unlike other breast cancers, TNBC cells lack estrogen, progesterone and HER2 receptors, making them resistant to certain therapies. This aggressive form accounts for roughly 10% to 15% of all breast cancers and disproportionately affects younger women, Black individuals and those with BRCA1 mutations.
“I did my routine breast examinations and felt a lump,” Caldwell recalled. “It didn’t feel right, so I made an appointment to get it checked out. I was hesitant because I didn’t have health insurance, but I went anyway, knowing I would have to pay out of pocket. My results came back negative, but I just felt like I needed to get screened further, so my doctor recommended an ultrasound. That’s when they found the cancer.”
Caldwell has courageously navigated her breast cancer journey for three years, culminating in a final reconstructive surgery planned for February 2025 to replace her expanders with permanent implants. Despite lacking a family history of breast cancer and testing negative for the BRCA1 gene, her diagnosis underscores the unpredictable nature of the disease. As the American Cancer Society highlights, mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, known as Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC), significantly elevate the risk of inherited breast cancer for both men and women. While approximately 7% of women in the United States will develop breast cancer by age 70, this risk surges to 50% for those carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.
“I highly recommend ultrasounds,” Caldwell said. “My initial mammogram didn’t catch my cancer, and that is really concerning to me. If an ultrasound is an option, I recommend taking it. You are in charge of your own health, so just ask for it. If you have a family history of breast cancer, you can be screened for the BRCA gene for free. There are lots of programs out there – you just need to ask and find companies that will work with you financially to get the cost of the medicine down. Check websites of the manufacturers of the medicine. ”
While not strictly necessary, Caldwell proactively chose a double mastectomy to mitigate any potential risks. Following extensive testing, she embarked on a rigorous treatment regimen encompassing six months of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation and surgery. The procedure necessitated the removal of thirteen lymph nodes, and a subsequent expander complication required further medical intervention.
Caldwell received exceptional care at the Miami Cancer Institute, where she developed a deep appreciation for the dedicated nursing staff. Even after treatment, she maintains a connection with the institute, making frequent visits to express her gratitude.
“You are your own best advocate,” she said. “Asking questions is a really big thing. Just keep asking questions, and if you don’t find your answer, ask someone else until you do. Never take no for an answer. I also did a ton of research on my own and am still learning about the different therapies available.”
On Saturday, Oct. 26, Caldwell will cut the ceremonial ribbon at the rescheduled Florida Keys Hope Walk at Crane Point Hammock. The annual walk aims to honor cancer survivors, spread the word about reducing risks and raise money to help the American Cancer Society save lives.
“This walk is really special to me and funds a lot of the cutting-edge research that is being conducted,” said Caldwell. “They asked me to be the one to cut the ribbon so I said I would.”
Middle and Lower Keys residents can now conveniently access comprehensive health care services to combat their breast cancer at Baptist Health Fishermen’s Community Hospital in Marathon, eliminating the need for lengthy commutes to Miami. Along with mammograms and ultrasounds, the hospital offers a diverse range of treatments, including acupuncture, massage therapy, physical therapy, laboratory services and intravenous infusions of essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, flexible payment plans are available to accommodate individuals with limited income or insurance coverage.
“I just want people to know that there are a lot of options out there; a lot more options than there used to be,” said Caldwell. “No insurance or low income shouldn’t stop anyone from going and getting checked out. I even personally drove a lady that didn’t have transportation to a mammogram appointment. We are all in this together and there are a lot of people in our community that have your back. I am super grateful every day for this journey, and I just want people to trust their bodies, have faith and have a positive attitude. It really does make a world of difference when you’re battling breast cancer.”
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