ROME, Ga., April 20, 2023 – Molly Kelly Steeves knew there was a deadly history of breast cancer in her family. Fortunately, she turned to the experts at the Breast Center at Atrium Health Floyd to monitor her health and find peace of mind.
“My paternal grandmother and aunt both had breast cancer and died of breast cancer, and they died pretty young," Steeves, 42, said when asked about her decision to seek genetic screening at the center. She said the issue arose when her father started seeing a new physician, who asked about his family history.
After hearing about the breast cancer deaths in his family, the doctor suggested that he undergo genetic testing. When the results came back, he learned that he had the CHEK2 mutation.
“So I went and had it done at The Breast Center. It was really easy," Steeves said. “I got it back and I was indeed positive for the CHEK2 mutation, which comes with a higher risk of breast cancer."
She now gets a mammogram and an MRI once a year just to be proactive. The diagnostic tests give radiologists different pieces of information that help them assess her breast health. She is also impressed with LaDonna Holcomb, a nurse practitioner at The Breast Center.
“LaDonna is so great. You can tell she loves what she does," Steeves said. “She explained everything to me simply prior to my blood test and when my results were in she was so calm and understanding. She has been there when I have questions. She was so great when I referred friends for the genetic testing."
Holcomb has worked at Floyd for 12 years. She has 38 years of experience in the medical field and has worked for 15 years as a nurse practitioner.
Like all of the nurse practitioners at The Breast Center, Holcomb is a graduate of the Clinical Cancer Genetics training program at City of Hope National Medical Center in Duarte, California, and has undergone extensive training and ongoing annual education in cancer genetics.
The amenities at The Breast Center are another plus for Steeves.
“It is incredible. When they walk in, they give you these pretty, pink robes. It's like going to the spa, and it makes it feel not scary. It is just comforting and calm. Everybody is super sweet," Steeves said.
She said most of her friends are very health conscious. Since she tends to be an open book about most things, she is passionate about spreading the word about The Breast Center's services.
“I have a friend whose mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I told her all about getting genetic testing. She did and thankfully she did not have it. I tell everybody," said Steeves, a local Realtor.
Her battle with cancer extends to her service as treasurer for Cancer Navigators. The nonprofit organization works with community partners to provide support for local cancer patients.