Prithvi Rao, Breast Cancer, Diagnosed at 55

Breast Cancer | fatigue

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About Me

I was 55 years old when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I have always considered myself proactive about my health, regularly attending checkups and taking care of myself.

How This Started

I was training for the London Marathon when I began noticing changes in how I felt physically.

What I Noticed

I was feeling more fatigued than usual. My training runs felt more grueling, recovery took longer, and I finished the marathon well below my expected pace.

I knew this was not typical for me despite my best efforts in training.

What Happened Next

While training for the marathon, I came across information about DetecTogether’s three tenets: Know Your Great, the 2-Week Rule, and Share with Your Doctor.

I realized that I was not feeling my “great” for longer than two weeks, so I made an appointment with my physician.

My Decisions Along the Way

I paid attention to the fact that my training performance and recovery were below my expectations.

After recognizing that these changes had continued for more than two weeks, I scheduled an appointment with my doctor.

Why It Was Easy to Wait

I was in the middle of marathon training.
I initially viewed the changes as part of my training experience.

The Moment Things Changed

I went in for what seemed like a routine visit that included a physical, blood work, and a mammogram.

I never expected that appointment would reveal something that could potentially alter the course of my life.

What I Learned

I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

After receiving the diagnosis, I went through consultations, additional screenings, and treatment planning. I was grateful that the cancer had been found at an early stage because my treatment options were more effective, less invasive, and my prognosis was significantly better than if the cancer had been found later.

What Would Have Helped Sooner

Not specified.

What I Want Others to Know

Whether it’s scheduling your next mammogram or noting changes in your body, early detection can be the difference between life and death. I’m living proof of that.

I’ll continue to share my story not just for awareness, but to offer hope to those facing similar fears. Early detection didn’t just save my life, it gave me a future.

Call to Action

If you notice changes in your body or are not feeling your normal for more than two weeks, schedule an appointment and discuss those changes with your doctor.