Hoag’s #1 Priority Is You: Tricia Takasugi’s Breast Cancer Journey
When Tricia Takasugi first discovered a lump in her breast, she knew she had to act quickly. A close friend, a breast cancer survivor who was treated at Hoag, urged her to seek care without delay. “She said, ‘You cannot wait two months or three months to see a doctor.’”
Following that advice, Tricia called Hoag and was seen within two days.
“At Hoag, when a woman calls about a lump, their top priority is to get her in right away,” she said, a sentiment that brought her immense relief. Delaying a diagnostic mammogram can increase stress and the risk of cancer spreading. Recognizing this urgency, Tricia made the hour-long drive to her appointment, where her experience was unforgettable.
“It felt like the red carpet was rolled out for me. They treated me like royalty,” she shared. “From the moment I arrived, it was clear they saw me as family. Their compassion was evident, and they did everything to put me at ease.” That empathy remained a cornerstone of her journey with HER2-positive breast cancer.
“You’re overwhelmed and scared, not knowing what comes next,” Tricia explained. “But the team at Hoag wrapped their arms around me and assured me, ‘We’re in this together.’”
Dr. January Lopez, medical director of breast imaging at Hoag’s Breast Center, carefully explained Tricia's imaging results and the next steps in her care. “I can’t express how much compassion she showed me that day. She made sure I felt comfortable and supported. Dr. Lopez is truly special.”
Tricia often reflects on the thoughtful gestures from her medical team that made a lasting impact. During Tricia's in-person appointment with Dr. Sadia Khan, the medical director of breast surgical oncology, when mandatory masking was in place, Dr. Khan arranged for a virtual meeting from the room next door. This allowed Tricia to see her smile and connect with her without the barrier of a mask.
“That simple step meant everything. It made me feel valued as a human being and not just a patient,” she said. “I appreciated her effort to create that connection.”
Tricia is passionate about sharing her story because she found inspiration in the experiences of others. Hearing from friends and reading testimonials about Hoag strengthened her belief in the importance of choosing the right care facility.
“Words can’t capture the feeling of being cared for at Hoag,” she reflected. “Each interaction with the staff feels like a building block. They see us at our most vulnerable and lift us up every step of the way, proudly playing a part in our healing journey.” A crucial part of her support system was her nurse navigator, who guided her through appointments and answered all her questions.
“Having a nurse navigator was invaluable. They helped me navigate everything and eased my mind during such a confusing time,” Tricia shared. “I could reach out with any question, knowing I’d have support.”
Now that Tricia has completed her treatment, she is optimistic about her future, although follow-up appointments will determine her remission status. This hope is deeply rooted in the exceptional care she received at Hoag. “I’ve spoken to others who underwent cancer treatment elsewhere, and they often lack the same confidence about their future,” she said. “The extra steps the staff take at Hoag instill a sense of hope, showing you that they’re committed to helping you every step of the way before, during and after your cancer diagnosis.” Tricia’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right care, even in the face of daunting challenges, there is always hope for a brighter future.
