One out of every 18 Americans is a cancer survivor. In recognition of National Cancer Survivors Month this June, Houston Methodist is highlighting the story of Jessica Sliva, a 39-year-old breast cancer survivor whose story emphasizes how cancer can affect anyone at any age.

After finding a lump in her breast in March 2025, Sliva was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer: an aggressive form of breast cancer known for its rapid growth. The subtype accounts for roughly 10% of cases but is not driven by hormones or genetics.

“I was told the cancer could spread to my brain, bones or other organs,” said Sliva. “One of the markers used to show how fast the cancer cells were multiplying had a scale with 30% being the high-end cut off range. Mine was at 90%.”

Within days of her diagnosis, Sliva began a rigorous, comprehensive treatment plan that included 16 rounds of chemotherapy and three surgeries.

“Any time we encounter a fast-growing tumor like this, our goal is to act as quickly as possible to prevent it from spreading,” said Dr. Candy Arentz, breast surgical oncologist at Houston Methodist West Hospital. “Fortunately, Ms. Sliva trusted her gut. Early detection played a key role here and is one of the reasons, the treatment was effective.”

“I was young and healthy and always stayed on top of my doctor’s appointments. Cancer can happen to anyone. That’s why regular self-exams are so important,” Sliva said. “The recommended age to start getting mammograms is 40, but I was only 37 when I first noticed the lump,”

Sliva rang the ceremonial bell to mark the end of her treatment in September 2025. A month later, she received the encouraging news that the cancer had been eliminated, and no lymph node involvement was found.

“One of the hardest parts was managing the side effects like fatigue and neuropathy while trying to remain positive and focused on my recovery,” Sliva said. “It was through my faith in God that I found the strength to persevere. I couldn’t have done it without the help of the nurses and staff who were there for me every step of the way.”

National Cancer Survivors Month recognizes the estimated 18.6 million Americans who have battled and survived cancer. By 2035, that number is projected to exceed 22 million, 5.3 million of which are breast cancer survivors, according to the American Cancer Society. From diagnosis through treatment and beyond, this observance raises awareness of the ongoing physical and emotional challenges survivors may experience.

Cancer survivorship has grown over the last several years due to screening improvements, early detection, advances in targeted therapies, and comprehensive treatment approaches. Despite the

progress, survivors often face long-term and late effects, including chronic pain, an increased risk of recurrence or secondary cancers, mental health challenges and financial burdens.