Alese Evon - Ithaca, MI

Mother, Dog Lover, Resilient Cancer Warrior

"I feel blessed to have such an amazing team working for me, and these caring experts are right here in my back yard. I am grateful for their guidance on a difficult journey and thank them from the bottom of my heart."

Alese Evon, 56, was surprised to receive a breast cancer diagnosis. She had always embraced a healthy lifestyle in her hometown of Ithaca, had no family history and kept annual mammogram appointments. When the word cancer took her breath away, she drew strength and support from family, friends and her excellent care team at MyMichigan Health.

Evon has utilized several of MyMichigan Health’s resources from the start of her journey until now. She received her diagnostic mammogram, lumpectomy and radiation treatments at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma, biopsy at MyMichigan Medical Center Midland and chemotherapy treatments at MyMichigan Medical Center Mt. Pleasant. Throughout the process, Medical Oncologist and Hematologist Tannu Sahay, M.D., and Breast Nurse Navigator Melissa Hoag R.N., O.C.N., C.N.-B.N., coordinated her care and provided education so that she could be best equipped to make decisions while feeling supported.

“I am eternally grateful for the call I received from Melissa, whom I knew personally,” Evon shared. “Her call to me was less than 24 hours from the time I initially received my diagnosis. Within hours after that, I had an appointment with a surgeon and a step-by-step care plan.”

Evon’s first step in treatment was to meet with MyMichigan Surgeon Jeffery Smith, M.D., to create a surgical plan. Following surgery, she met with Dr. Sahay. Evon was relieved to have Dr. Sahay take time to explain her condition and the treatment process, as well as answer questions.

“When I first met Dr. Sahay, I felt an instant connection. There was a profound energy coming from her:  a combination of intelligence and expertise along with genuine caring. She was both straightforward and loving, which truly helped calm my fears.”

At MyMichigan Medical Center Alma, Dr. Smith performed a successful lumpectomy. Dr. Sahay evaluated the tumor characteristics along with ordering an Oncotype DX test which is a form of genomic testing.  The combination of these results provided Dr. Sahay with valuable information including the risk of recurrence and the benefit of chemotherapy.  Due to this, Dr. Sahay was able to develop a personalized plan of treatment for Evon.

“I was determined to give it my all,” Evon shared. In fact, just two days after surgery she attended the wedding of a close friend that she did not want to miss.

Evon healed well from surgery. Her initial reaction to chemotherapy was shaky, but her body adjusted quickly. Her healthy lifestyle prior to cancer worked in her favor. She shared that a very vulnerable part of the chemotherapy process for her was the idea of losing her hair. “I love so many things about my close-knit, small town, but the thought of going out in public without hair and having people notice felt so scary,” she said. “My friends helped me throw a ‘shave party’ to give me a sense of control over that, and I had a marvelous experience selecting a wig once I made the decision to do it.”

Having an infusion center close by in Mt. Pleasant made a huge difference for Evon. Evon was grateful she wasn’t forced to drive long distances for the care and support she needed throughout that time. Brandi McConnell, F.N.P.-B.C., M.S.N., nurse practitioner, provided ongoing guidance.

Following chemotherapy, Evon started radiation therapy in Alma under the care of Mark Fireman, M.D., board certified radiation oncologist, and oncology nurse, Dawn Malek, B.SN., R.O.C.N.

“Dawn, played a crucial role in my journey, offering invaluable support during the emotionally challenging period after completing my chemo, radiation and treatment for mild congestive heart failure,” Evon added. “The transition was difficult. I grappled with the unexpected feelings of finality and the fear of cancer's potential return.” Evon appreciated Dawn’s understanding and empathy as she navigated her complex emotional landscape. “Her presence and care were instrumental in helping me find a sense of peace and stability during that transition,” said Evon.

Evon felt it was important to share her story so others could be informed about the quality of care they have access to close to home. She is doing well and serves as a para pro part-time at her local elementary school. She credits Hoag, McConnell, Malek and Dr. Sahay for educating her along the way so that she was prepared at each stage.

“Every part of my treatment was so well orchestrated and timely,” said Evon. “They had answers for questions I never guessed I would have. I feel blessed to have such an amazing team working for me, and these caring experts are right here in my back yard. I am grateful for their guidance on a difficult journey and thank them from the bottom of my heart.”

Those who would like more information on MyMichigan’s comprehensive breast health program may visit. www.mymichigan.org/breast