Story of Courage: Erika Forsythe | Breast Cancer Survivor Story
Erika Forsythe was 40 years old and nearing the end of a difficult divorce when her annual mammogram revealed a calcification.
Already emotionally depleted, she now faced a breast cancer diagnosis. Fifteen years later, she would have to find the courage to face cancer again.
Today, this hunter, taxidermist and two-time breast cancer survivor is sharing her story with honesty, humor and a message of support for other women.
Erika Forsythe's First Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Erika’s first diagnosis was Stage 0 breast cancer. She underwent a lumpectomy, radiation and five years of Tamoxifen.
Recovery took time. Nearly a year passed before her energy returned, but eventually, life began to feel normal again.
Facing Cancer a Second Time
Fifteen years later, another mammogram revealed calcifications in her other breast. This time, they were more widespread, and a mastectomy was necessary.
Erika considered reconstruction or going flat. As she worked through that decision, she leaned on the people who loved her.
She spoke with another woman who had experienced a single mastectomy, often while sitting in her turkey blind waiting for her spring bird. She eventually harvested her spring turkey.
She also talked with her stepdaughter and her husband. Her husband promised to support whichever decision felt right to her.
Finding a Distraction Before Surgery
The weekend before surgery, Erika stayed busy managing food for a local taxidermy show and competition.
The event gave her a much-needed distraction. She also won Best of Show in her category, bringing a moment of accomplishment before the surgery ahead.
A Surgeon Who Listened
Erika initially planned to have a double mastectomy. But on the day of surgery, panic set in, and she changed her mind.
Her compassionate surgeon listened. After making a few extra marks to ensure there was no confusion, the surgeon removed only the affected breast.
In a moment when Erika felt overwhelmed, her wishes were heard and respected.
Facing Her Reflection
Two days after surgery, Erika faced a moment she had feared: removing her bandages and looking in the mirror.
She expected an angry scar and a body she would not recognize. Instead, she gave herself time to meet this changed version of herself.
It was difficult, but it was not nearly as frightening as she had imagined.
Recovery brought practical challenges, too. Erika remembers the drain tube as the worst part of the experience. A lanyard for the shower and a mastectomy shirt with pockets eventually helped her manage it.
Cancer-Free Again
Now, two years after surgery, Erika is honest about the emotional side of recovery.
She is cancer-free again, but living with one breast has been more emotionally challenging than she anticipated. Knowing what she knows today, she believes she might have chosen differently.
That honesty is an important part of her story.
And her humor remains. As Erika puts it, there is now only one breast left to “smash” during her annual mammogram.
She is cancer-free, again.
Honoring Erika’s Courage
Erika’s story reminds us that courage can include uncertainty, changing your mind and accepting support.
The Ladies In The Outdoors & Dolls and Does Collective community honors her resilience and her willingness to share both the hopeful and difficult parts of surviving breast cancer twice.
Erika, thank you for telling your story so another woman can feel less alone.
No one fights alone.
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