Kimberly Ardoin’s journey through breast cancer Kimberly Ardoin, full-time retired grandmother and part-time substitute teacher and tutor, found out how fast things can change when it comes to breast health. In May 2021, Ardoin made sure to attend her routinely scheduled mammogram appointment and was relieved to hear that everything was normal. Unexpectedly just nine months later, in February 2022, she noticed some discomfort and itchiness on her breast. She assumed it was a bug bite or irritation. When it didn’t go away, she was persuaded by friends that it was time to see her doctor. “I never thought it was cancer,” Ardoin recalls. “I didn’t think breast cancer would show up visibly and hurt.” Determined to beat it Her primary care physician ordered another mammogram, ultrasound and a needle biopsy. Still in disbelief after tests were ordered, Ardoin thought to herself, “Everyone is getting all bent out of shape over this. There’s no way this is cancer.” When she received the call from her doctor with the results, Ardoin was shocked. Uncertain what would happen next, she resolved to do whatever was necessary to beat cancer. After undergoing a single mastectomy, Ardoin continued radiation treatments five days a week for 28 treatments. The daily commitment to attending appointments, along with the extra care it took to deal with side effects of the radiation on her skin, were burdensome. However, she says she’s thankful to have been able to stay in Lake Charles, where she lives, and not bear an even larger burden of traveling daily. Time for your annual mammogram? Schedule yours today at one of our three convenient locations: • Lake Charles Memorial Hospital • Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women • Memorial Diagnostic Center—Moss Bluff (coming soon) 337-284-0772 In September 2023, Kimberly Ardoin participated as a model in The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s Fashion with Purpose Gala fashion show. The show lent the stage to Memorial cancer survivors, outfitted in a colorful collection, celebrating survivorship and honoring those who have been touched by cancer. Life after cancer July 29, 2022, after ringing the “victory bell” at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, Ardoin and her family and friends gathered for a “Flock Cancer Party,” complete with pink flamingo decorations, pink feathers and plenty of celebration. Today Ardoin is not just surviving— she’s thriving. Guided by her cancer experience, she is passionate about walking alongside other breast cancer patients, accompanying them along their journey. She participates in a monthly cancer support group as a mentor. Ardoin encourages other women to stay vigilant and pay attention to even the slightest changes in their body. “You never know when it could be something more serious than a minor discomfort,” she says. thriving Surviving & lcmh.com 9
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