When Gail felt a lump during a self-exam in November 2007, she had a gut feeling that she had breast cancer. The following month, Gail had a mammogram, a sonogram and a biopsy — all on the same day — and the results confirmed that she had breast cancer.

Her surgeon thought that, along with surgery, radiation and hormonal treatment might suffice, but Gail's oncologist recommended chemotherapy, as well. Gail wanted more information to make an appropriate decision, so her oncologist told her about the Oncotype DX^® test, and about the TAILORx clinical trial.

After learning more about the trial, Gail decided to enroll in it. One benefit of enrolling is that the Oncotype DX test is ordered for all participants. "I opted to be in the trial because I knew the Oncotype DX test would help me make a treatment plan," Gail said. "I also knew that this way, they would keep a close eye on me throughout my treatment and afterwards, with lots of follow-up. I also liked the idea of helping people who have breast cancer in the future, and of helping to advance research."

Gail's Recurrence Score^® result was 18, putting her at an intermediate risk of breast cancer recurrence. She was randomized to receive four cycles of chemotherapy, in addition to radiation and hormonal therapy. "I had initially decided against chemotherapy, but my Recurrence Score result convinced me to go with my oncologist's recommendation," she said.

Now 61, Gail has completed chemotherapy and radiation therapy. She lost her hair two weeks after starting chemo. "You just have to keep on pushing," she said. She bought a few wigs, including one that looks like singer Rihanna's hairstyle. She will be taking an aromatase inhibitor therapy (anti-estrogen) for five years, and is in generally good health.

Gail's husband, Alphonse, supported her through her breast cancer journey. "He accompanied me to appointments, for support and to ask questions," she said. "Every woman in his family — including his mother, his sister and his cousin — has had breast cancer, so he was very understanding. He lifted me up; for example, he made me get up and eat, even when I didn't want to."

After almost 30 years as a medical assistant, Gail retired in 2003 to care for her mother. "Taking care of my mother made me keep on pushing, too," Gail said. "She gave me everything when I was a girl, and now I want to take care of her."

Gail's support network also included friends and neighbors who have had breast cancer. And she kept herself going by window shopping and keeping up with fashion.