At the age of 34, Elissa Kalver’s life took an unexpected turn when she discovered a lump in her breast shortly after giving birth to her first child. With no family history of cancer, she initially dismissed the lump as a harmless cyst. However, a visit to the doctor revealed another lump in her armpit, and subsequent biopsies confirmed both lumps were malignant. The diagnosis was devastating: HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, a form of the disease that has spread beyond the breast and is considered incurable.
Kalver’s journey into the world of cancer treatment began with a grim prognosis. “I was told I wasn’t going to die tomorrow, but I was told that there was an 80% chance that I would die within five years,” she recounted. The first oncologist she consulted attempted to provide hope, mentioning patients who had survived six or seven years. For a young mother, the thought of living only until 40 was a harsh reality to confront.
Understanding HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer
HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer is characterized by the overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a protein that plays a crucial role in cell growth and division. This aggressive form of breast cancer is known for its rapid progression and poor prognosis, particularly when diagnosed at an advanced stage. According to the Cleveland Clinic, patients diagnosed before the cancer spreads have a five-year survival rate of 97%. However, for those like Kalver, whose cancer has metastasized, the survival rate plummets to 39%.
Despite the daunting statistics, advancements in medical research have significantly improved treatment options over the past decade. Dr. Shari Goldfarb, an oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, notes that new medications targeting the HER2 receptor have transformed the outlook for many women diagnosed with this subtype of breast cancer. “It used to be one of the worst and most aggressive subtypes of cancer,” she explained. “Many women are living years and even decades now with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer.”
Kalver’s Treatment Journey
Kalver’s treatment regimen has been extensive and multifaceted. After her initial diagnosis, she sought care at the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, where she began an aggressive course of chemotherapy. Over the past four years, she has participated in multiple clinical trials and undergone various treatment modalities, as her oncologist, Dr. Marla Lipsyc-Sharf, has tailored her care to her evolving condition.
About a year into her treatment, Kalver faced another setback when doctors discovered that the cancer had spread to her brain. “I always thought tumors in your brain, like, ‘That’s it,'” she said, reflecting on her fears. However, a targeted chemotherapy that could cross the blood-brain barrier successfully reduced the tumors by approximately 80%, and they have remained stable for the past three years.
The side effects of treatment have been challenging. Kalver experienced severe nausea from one chemotherapy regimen, making it difficult to stay awake. Another treatment caused her to lose her hair, which she worried would distress her then one-year-old daughter. Dr. Lipsyc-Sharf has worked diligently to adjust Kalver’s treatment plan whenever side effects became too intense, ensuring that her quality of life remains a priority.
Currently, Kalver receives chemotherapy infusions every three weeks and takes an oral medication twice daily. While the treatment has caused some anemia, requiring a blood transfusion, she remains optimistic. “After being on chemo for four years, I’ve really learned that we have to prioritize living, not just surviving,” she stated. “I feel really grateful to still be on chemo treatments that work.”
Living with Cancer: A New Perspective
Kalver’s experience has reshaped her understanding of life and health. She acknowledges that she may spend the rest of her life undergoing treatment, and the concept of remission may never apply to her. Nevertheless, she has found ways to celebrate milestones in her journey. After completing her first course of chemotherapy, she participated in the symbolic act of ringing a bell, a ritual many cancer patients use to mark the end of treatment. “I rang it so hard that I actually broke the bell,” she recalled with a smile.
In addition to celebrating her “cancerversary,” the anniversary of her diagnosis, Kalver has launched “We Got This,” the first nonprofit gift registry for cancer patients. She has also authored a book and become a professional speaker, aiming to educate others about the realities of participating in clinical trials. As she approaches her fifth cancerversary, she is contemplating how to commemorate this significant milestone.
When not focused on her advocacy work, Kalver cherishes time spent with her daughter, now four, and her husband. “I want to live as long as I can with the best quality of life that I can, making the biggest impact that I can,” she emphasized. Her commitment to living fully is evident in her daily choices and interactions.
Conclusion
Elissa Kalver’s story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those living with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. While the diagnosis may be daunting, her resilience and proactive approach to treatment and advocacy highlight the importance of hope and community support. As medical advancements continue to evolve, Kalver’s journey serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that even in the face of adversity, one can strive to live life to the fullest.
