In this eye-opening episode, Tonya Benefield shares her challenging journey to diagnosis and treatment. Tonya faced numerous obstacles, including being initially told she was too young for a mammogram, experiencing multiple appointment cancellations and referral issues, and dealing with insensitive medical staff. She highlights the critical support she received from Carrie's TOUCH, which helped her navigate the complex healthcare system.
Tonya also speaks on the emotional and physical toll of her experience, including unexpected surgical outcomes and the lasting impact on her self-image. Finally, Tonya emphasizes the need for more patient advocates, culturally competent care, and ongoing support for cancer patients beyond their initial treatment.