Kathryn Fiddler, DNP, MBA, had recently begun going to the gym when she noticed a pain in her left breast.
Fiddler, the vice president of population health at TidalHealth, figured it could be due to working out more than usual. But after about a month, it was still there, and she found out that her pain was breast cancer.
She’d been getting regular mammograms, including a recent one, and had always been a proponent of preventative care.
To find the cause of the pain, Fiddler underwent additional tests, and she was diagnosed with cancer in January 2023. She had to do a lot of waiting along the way, for things like lab work, genetic tests and a surgery date. She had both surgery and chemotherapy to treat her cancer.
“We have, hands-down, a fabulous team here,” Fiddler said. “I have an amazing family and friends, and it really is that that gets you through.”
As a nurse, she’d shared the news with patients that they had breast cancer, but it was different to be on the other side. The experience inspired her to ask patients how they are truly doing, beyond the answer of “fine.” Getting to know people is important.
During her journey, she’s heard other survivors’ stories and has been able to motivate others to get their regular mammograms. Fiddler also leads TidalHealth’s breast cancer committee with Jill Stone, and in her position at TidalHealth, she has had a key role in bringing a new mobile mammography van to Delmarva through The Drive for Mobile Mammography.
Getting mammograms on a regular basis, rather than waiting, can make a major difference in catching breast cancer early.
“It really is much easier to treat early on than it is later on,” Fiddler said.
You can make a difference
Help save lives in our community by supporting the Sheila Zimmer Breast Screenings Fund. Created in memory of Sheila Zimmer, a Salisbury native who bravely battled breast cancer twice after a lifetime of giving back to others, this fund helps provide access to life-saving breast screenings and care up to diagnosis for patients in need. Through this effort, Sheila’s legacy of compassion and generosity will continue to touch lives.
Visit the TidalHealth Foundation page to support and help continue Sheila’s legacy.
