Different Types of Breast Cancer

Donna Nichols • October 7, 2024
A woman is examining her breast for signs of breast cancer.

Did you know there are MANY different types of breast cancer? I didn’t and still can’t get over how many there are. I will share them with you below and stress the importance of getting your annual mammogram!!


› Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

This is a non-invasive breast cancer and starts inside the milk ducts. It’s not life-threatening but can lead to an invasive type of breast cancer later on. There are generally no signs or symptoms, but some may experience a discharge from the nipples or a lump in the breast.


           › Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

This is the most common type of breast cancer and invasive means cancer has spread to the breast tissues. If not treated, this cancer can spread to the lymph nodes and possibly to tother areas of the body. This too may not show any signs or symptoms and usually first shows up in a mammogram which is why regular screening is so important.


           › Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

This is the second most common type of breast cancer and begins in the milk-carrying ducts and spreads beyond. Sometimes, the first sign of ILC is a hardening in the breast that can be felt, or the nipple may turn inward.


           › Inflammatory Breast Cancer

This is a rare and very aggressive form of breast cancer. It starts with reddening and swelling of the breast and can grow and spread quickly, worsening in a few hours to a few days. The breasts swell and become inflamed because the cancer cells clog the vessels that carry lymph.


           › Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)

This is not a true breast cancer and is usually diagnosed before menopause age. There are no signs or symptoms and is found only when the breast is biopsied for some other reason.


           › Male Breast Cancer

This is very rare but can happen because men have breast tissue which are usually just mounds of fat. Men can develop breast cancer from certain types of medications they take. The symptoms are the same as they are for women.


           › Triple Negative Breast Cancer

This type of breast cancer is not caused by hormones, but by a specific gene which means it is hereditary. This cancer does not respond well to medications and is very aggressive, but there are therapies to treat it.


           › Paget’s Disease of the Nipple

This is a rare form where the cancer cells collect around the nipple. Paget’s disease causes the nipple to become red, sore, flaky, and scaly. There can also be itching, burning, pain, and swelling.


           › Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast

These are extremely rare and tend to develop in women in their 40’s. The most common symptom is a lump your doctor can feel when examining the breast. They tend to grow rapidly, are generally not painful, and can create a visible bulge as it pouches against the skin.


           › Recurrent Breast Cancer

This is a cancer that comes back in the same or opposite breast after some time. Sometimes a single cancer cell can survive radiation and chemo and is able to grow into a new tumor.


           › Metastatic Breast Cancer

This is the of cancer that has spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and lymph nodes. Most women feel helpless when diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, but there are treatments that can control it for many years. Make sure you gather all the information needed to help you make a sound and well-informed decision about your situation.


As you can see, there are many types of breast cancers, and I didn’t cover all of them. To find out more, please visit breastcancer.org. Also, PLEASE schedule your mammogram TODAY and get checked regularly for breast cancer. Early detection is KEY!!!

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.

Weathering the Storm: A Senior’s Guide to Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 3, 2025
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services.  Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.

What do Seniors Want?

By Donna Nichols • May 7, 2025
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.
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