by SARAH J. NACHIN

 Overcoming Breast Cancer: Stories of Resilience and Advocacy

Dr. Charley Ferrer’s Journey and the Cancer Tamer Foundation

In 2016, when Dr. Charley Ferrer discovered at age fifty-three that she had Stage 2 breast cancer, her first reaction was fear. "I thought I was going to die. My mother had died from breast cancer at age fifty-nine."

However, she didn’t let fear take over. She researched the subject to learn how to deal with it. Her doctors wanted to remove both breasts and her ovaries, but a noted dermatologist and infectious disease doctor at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City was able to save them. However, the surgeons did have to take portions of both breasts.

She was prescribed Anastrozole, which can slow the growth of certain types of breast tumors. After three months, Dr. Charley discontinued the drug because of the side effects. That’s when she started alternative treatments and changed her lifestyle. "I eliminated all sugar. I juiced and practiced yoga and Reiki. My attitude towards living also changed," she remarks.

"Because of my personal experience I became ferocious with the need to learn everything I could about breast cancer—not just its treatment but thriving despite it."

She also began to share information with other cancer patients. This led to a television show and a book, Breast Cancer from Diagnosis to Surgery. Eventually, Dr. Charley established the "Cancer Tamer Foundation," a non-profit organization.

Men Facing Breast Cancer: Breaking the Stigma

Many people don’t realize that men can develop breast cancer. Paul Dombroski, a quarterback with the Buccaneers, was diagnosed with the disease at age fifty-seven. He started a campaign to educate and support men with this condition. The mortality rate for males is higher because it’s often caught at a later stage. Dombroski worked to erase the stigma that accompanies this diagnosis.

That was the case with Samuel. When he was taking his physical to join the Army, doctors discovered breast cancer, which disqualified him from military service. "I was ashamed to talk about it for more than forty years," he remarks.

Ann’s Story of Resourcefulness

Ann, an Army veteran, received her diagnosis at age sixty-five. Doctors performed a biopsy and found that the cancer was at Stage 1. She was frightened, and not long after the biopsy, her father passed away. Ann dealt with her illness by staying busy taking care of her father’s affairs and not dwelling on her condition. "There was so much going on that I didn’t have much time to think about myself."

She started radiation treatments. Ann didn’t have any internal side effects, but the radiation caused painful burns on her breasts that she had to clean and dress several times a day. Ever resourceful, she cut portions from disposable adult diapers and used them as bandages—these were softer than the bandages provided by the VA clinic. After completing radiation treatments, Ann went on medication for five years with no side effects. Seven years after her initial diagnosis, she is cancer-free.

Advances in Cancer Treatments and Holistic Care

Emerging Clinical Research

Instead of depending solely on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, many cancer doctors tailor treatment to the tumor's biology. Within the past several years, there have been promising clinical trials with Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy. This treatment uses the body’s immune system to fight the cancer and is administered prior to surgery.

There are also promising studies on cancer vaccines designed to prevent recurrence. These treatments have improved survival rates for many people in advanced stages of the disease and often cause fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Integrative and Alternative Regimens

Many people pursue alternative regimens in conjunction with or in place of traditional treatments. Certain holistic practitioners utilize acupuncture as well as herbal, mineral, and vitamin supplements. After some of these methods were scientifically proven to aid in cancer treatment, many oncologists and integrative doctors started using herbal treatments or adjunct therapies alongside traditional regimens. Many alternative practitioners recommend a diet centered on organic vegetables, fruit, dairy, and meat products.

Dr. Robert Martinez, who has offices in Hernando and Hillsborough counties, has practiced as a chiropractor for more than twenty years. Through extensive study, he has found that diet and certain environmental toxins can contribute to cancer risk: "Avoid all sugar, processed foods high in carbohydrates, and metal and chemical-containing products. Massage, light and laser therapy, and meditation can help with the side effects of conventional cancer treatments." He warns, however, that patients must ensure they receive accurate information.

Empowerment, Support, and Moving Forward

Many people ask: "What should I do when I find out I have breast cancer, and what are the best ways to deal with this diagnosis?"

Dr. Charley states: "This journey is both terrifying and liberating. It’s imperative that you not allow yourself to wallow in self-pity. Educate and advocate for yourself, and support those on the journey with you. My book, Breast Cancer from Diagnosis to Surgery, provides insight into how to thrive despite the disease. It shows you how to laugh through your tears and build strength and confidence in yourself."

Any devastating illness like breast cancer impacts an individual in physical, psychological, and financial ways. To help people navigate financial obstacles, Dr. Ferrer—who is also a licensed realtor—developed a seminar called "Road to Home Ownership." Aimed primarily at women who want to purchase a home while navigating financial challenges, she shows that the American dream of homeownership remains achievable.

Dr. Charley Ferrer stands as proof that one can overcome the challenges of breast cancer through a healthy regimen combining traditional and alternative treatments, hard work, a positive attitude, and serving others.