Toni Taylor works as an emergency admitting registrar at TidalHealth Nanticoke.
In 2007, while working at a doctor’s office, Taylor had routine blood work done. The next day, the doctor informed her of the shocking results and referred her to a specialist for further testing. At the time, Taylor had kept up with preventive screenings and was unaware of any family history of breast cancer.
Taylor underwent three lumpectomies in a single month. Though she initially hoped to preserve her breast, she ultimately had a mastectomy. She did not require chemotherapy or radiation, and was offered preventive medication for two years but chose not to take it.
Grateful for her health, Taylor credits her survival to faith and early detection. She urges others to stay on top of routine screenings before “it gets on top of you,” and pay attention to any changes or warning signs. She reminds breast cancer warriors and survivors to stay focused and make time to care for themselves.
As a breast cancer survivor, she lives her life with a sense of humor.
“When I go for my mammogram, I always say I should receive half a bill since I only have one breast,” she 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.
