Leanne Dengler:  Age 42:  Duncansville, Blair County

Occupation:  Qualified Plan Administration Liaison

Leanne had her mammogram and was diagnosed form her mammogram results and a subsequent bioply that indicated ductal carcinoma in-situ.   However, the surgery revealed that the cancer had spread to the surrounding tissue.  After a second surgery, the pathology report indicated her cancer was Her-2neu and hormone positive.  Leanne received infusions of Hereceptin for one year.  Doctors also recommended a hysterectomy as a preventive measure since the cancer was hormone positive.  With the realization of infusions for twelve months, Leanne opted for a medical port.  Overall, her cancer battle involved five surgeries within an 18 month period.  

Throughout Leanne’s diagnosis, treatment and recovery, she found that her family, friends and co-workers were her biggest cheerleaders.  The support she received was so uplifting.  Leanne took the battle one day at a time and found her relationships deepened through this journey.

One moment stands out clearly in Leanne’s mind.  Her daughters play softball and she was watching them play one day and realized she may have lost her hair but not her eyesight.  She was present and she could watch her daughters.  According to Leanne, “I thanked God for the many blessings I have.”  Leanne’s faith helped her most through her cancer journey.  “God’s will be done.”

Because breast cancer does not discriminate and can affect anyone, manor woman, she feels that it is important to help everyone understand breast cancer and to be more aware.

Leanne is a proud walker along with friends and family in the Making Strides Against Breast
Cancer Walk!