When 35-year-old Betsy Nay noticed a lump in her breast, she could have brushed it off — after all, she was young, healthy and had no family history of cancer. But something in her gut told her to listen, to trust her instincts. It was a feeling she couldn’t ignore. What followed was a diagnosis that changed her life: cancer. Rather than let it overwhelm her, Betsy channeled her energy into action, partnering with her care team at UNC Health every step of the way.
A Shared Fight
Betsy’s care team, including UNC Health oncologist Anureet Copeland, MD, sprang into action, developing a treatment plan that included six rounds of chemotherapy, followed by surgery and radiation. The road ahead was challenging, but Betsy’s determination left a lasting impression on the team, especially Dr. Copeland, who described her as “a pleasure to work with.”
Diagnosed at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Betsy faced an uphill battle on multiple fronts. Yet from her very first appointment, she approached her diagnosis with an upbeat attitude and an unwavering focus on moving forward.
“If there was something that could be done, we did it,” Betsy recalls.
Betsy’s tenacity became a driving force in her care. It not only shaped her own journey but inspired those around her, including her care team. “Life is busy, but be your own advocate,” Dr. Copeland says — a sentiment Betsy exemplified every step of the way. Together, Betsy and her team embraced the challenges with a shared goal: to beat cancer and restore her health.
The Power of Advocacy and Expertise
Betsy’s journey wasn’t just about fighting cancer — it was about the partnership she built with her care team. Her determination to face each stage of treatment head on was matched by UNC Health’s commitment to delivering world-class care and turned a challenging diagnosis into a shared mission.
Betsy’s diagnosis reflects a concerning trend. According to UNC Health cancer epidemiologist Melissa Troester, Ph.D., breast cancer rates among women under 40 are rising.
“It’s early data, but we need more years to understand the magnitude of this increase,” Dr. Troester says. Her research aims to understand cancer risk, progression and the indicators that can help predict the disease.
While the long-term implications of this trend remain unclear, Betsy’s experience highlights the importance of listening to your body, trusting your instincts and seeking care — even if you don’t fit the typical profile.
Every Step Counts
Betsy’s recovery wasn’t just about reaching the finish line — it was about the steps she took along the way and the team that walked with her. Today, thanks to her determination, self-advocacy and the unwavering support of her care team, Betsy is cancer-free.
For Betsy, those moments of action and courage, paired with the expertise of UNC Health providers, turned a daunting diagnosis into a victory. From preventative screenings to cutting-edge cancer care, UNC Health is here to help you live your healthiest, fullest life.
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