Fall 2023, Jennifer Drinkwater scheduled an appointment with the Hoag Breast Center to get a second opinion on her small, non-invasive breast cancer diagnosis. Upon further screening, board certified fellowship-trained breast surgeon Dr. Elizabeth Kraft, discovered Jennifer had been misdiagnosed. Jennifer was diagnosed with HER2-positive invasive breast cancer, which had spread to her lymph node.
“Cut them off.” That was Jennifer Drinkwater’s initial reaction upon receiving her HER2-positive invasive breast cancer diagnosis. Like many women facing this challenge, she felt overwhelmed and unsure of her options. But at Hoag, she discovered compassion, support, expertise and a sense of comfort that transformed her cancer journey.
As Jennifer prepared for her first round of chemotherapy, the daunting reality of her diagnosis settled in. When the emotional weight became too heavy, oncologist Dr. Chaitali Nangia, M.D. director of breast cancer research, was there to provide resilience. During a vulnerable moment, Jennifer remembers asking, “Am I going to live?” Dr. Nangia responded with unwavering confidence, assuring her, “We are going to get the cancer obliterated before you even go into surgery.” And she was right.
After six rounds of chemotherapy, Jennifer’s body had responded favorably to the treatment. Dr. Nangia calls Jennifer a “beauty warrior” who handled chemotherapy with grace, strength and glam!
Dr. Kraft, worked with Jennifer to help her understand all of her surgery options as her initial mindset was to “cut them off.” Jennifer felt a shift after meeting Dr. Kraft a sense of power over her body. “At first, I didn’t realize I had a choice,” Jennifer shared. With guidance from Dr. Kraft, she learned about oncoplastic surgery an innovative approach that allowed her to conserve her breasts while effectively battling cancer. On March 14th, 2024, Jennifer underwent her surgery.
“I am so glad I had voices of reason in my corner,” Jennifer reflected. This team went above and beyond, advocating for her and collaborating to create a tailored personalized treatment plan.
Grateful for the exceptional care she received close to home in Irvine, Jennifer is now undergoing hyperbaric treatments and continuing her immunotherapy regimen. She is determined to stay proactive in her health.
Her message to women everywhere is clear: “Do not put off your mammograms.” Jennifer’s cancer was detected during a routine screening, a decision that ultimately saved her life. She urges others, especially those with dense breasts, to prioritize their health, reminding them, “Chemo is a lot more painful than one mammogram.”
Now, with her hair growing back and her spirits high, Jennifer looks forward to returning to her active lifestyle. “My Hoag team made me feel like they are truly invested in my outcome,” she says. One nurse even took the time to read her entire chart, celebrating her progress with genuine joy.
“Whenever I hear that someone has breast cancer, my first thought is, ‘I hope they’re going to Hoag.’”
Jennifer’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, knowledge and determination, women can navigate their breast cancer journeys with strength and confidence. If you or someone you know is facing a similar diagnosis, remember you have choices and compassionate care is out there waiting for you.
