Butte Woman Shares the Importance of Self-Exams and Awareness After Breast Cancer Treatment at Intermountain Health St. James Hospital
Last fall, Valerie DeTonancour, at just age 37, felt a lump in her breast. Concerned, she went to the emergency department at Intermountain Health St. James Hospital for an evaluation. That would lead to a consultation with her primary care provider, and a biopsy that would reveal a diagnosis of breast cancer. After additional testing, it was determined that she had stage 3 invasive ductal carcinoma.
Because of the nature of her cancer, her treatment plan included chemotherapy treatments beginning in October 2025, followed by double mastectomy surgery, and then radiation therapy treatments. After nearly 12 months of treatment, she has continued to face her diagnosis with the support of a team of caregivers who have become like family at the Intermountain Health Cancer Center at St. James.
“I am so very thankful and blessed to have the team with me from the beginning,” she said. “At the center, they would have me set up with a private room (for treatment), and they would help me with fluids and nausea medication between treatments. They were always a call away.”
She came to rely on her cancer treatment team as she faced what she said were some of her darkest days. With their support and care, she has been able to maintain a positive outlook and keep her worst worries at bay.
"The cancer team at St. James is honored that we could support Valerie in her treatment journey," said Jerri Doyle, Director of Oncology, St. James Hospital. "We understand that supporting cancer patients means recognizing that every interaction contributes to their overall care, wellbeing, and experience. While we cannot remove all of the challenges associated with cancer, we can create an environment where patients feel safe, supported, informed, and valued."
She is also thankful for her "incredible support system" including her daughter, family members, and friends who have accompanied her to treatment, sent her care packages, and checked in on her.
DeTonancour 's case is unique in that she was younger than the recommended age of 40 for a screening mammogram, but she urges all women to know their bodies, understand how to do routine self-breast exam, and don't be afraid to seek care if they notice any changes.
She urges women to be "your own best advocate." She has found that speaking up and asking for help from her care team has helped her in her journey from diagnosis through treatment.
"Be comfortable with being uncomfortable," she said. "Be comfortable doing self-exams, be comfortable seeking out care, and don't be afraid to ask questions and ask for other opinions." For more information or to schedule an appointment for a mammography visit: https://intermountainhealthcare.org/locations/intermountain-health-st-james-hospital/imaging