Cary ▶ CO

Cary | CO
Age: 59
Diagnosis: Triple Positive Breast Cancer
Chemotherapy Regimen: Taxol
Total Treatments: 12 
Infusion Center: UC Health Cherry Creek 

Tell us about yourself.
I was 59 years old and a retired Insurance Broker when I discovered a lump in my breast during a shower. I was scheduled for my annual mammogram and ultrasound for dense breasts the following week, so believe it would have been found either way given the dimensions. I’ve been married 34 years and have two sons.

How did you find out about DigniCap?
I was referred to DigniCap by my Oncologist at UC Health. I had not heard of scalp cooling previously and was grateful that there was something to help.

Did you have a successful experience using DigniCap?
I was extremely lucky and did not experience any heavy shedding, and overall very little hair loss. My nurses were extremely skilled in putting on the cold cap and I found it pretty tolerable especially after the first 10 minutes. I was lucky that my head shape worked well as I understand that plays a role.

“Keeping your hair keeps your story private.“

Why was keeping your hair during chemotherapy important to you?
There were several benefits including feeling somewhat more normal, only sharing my story at my own discretion and keeping my hair for my son’s upcoming wedding.

How did keeping your hair affect you, and those around you?
Keeping my hair was very important. As my friend told me “It’s the last insult of a cancer diagnosis”. But keeping your hair keeps your story private – you choose who you tell and who knows. Your appearance does not broadcast it to the general public. Also, your outlook and self-confidence help you focus on your treatment. It’s not one more physical reminder of the journey.

What advice would you give to someone who is going through a similar experience, or who has recently been diagnosed and is considering scalp cooling?
I would highly recommend scalp cooling if your schedule allows for it. I found it uncomfortable for about 10 minutes but then not a problem.

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