RebeccaA 32-Year-Old Mom of Two Who Noticed a Lump in Her Breast

The same day she spoke with her Summus MD, Rebecca received a curated list of in-network OBGYNs with same-week availability. She secured an appointment for that Thursday, avoiding the two-week wait she was originally given.

Four days later, Rebecca went into her appointment with confidence. She shared a clear summary of her symptoms, family and medical history, and used the list of key questions her Summus MD had helped her prepare. Her new doctor took her concerns seriously and acted swiftly.

Rebecca’s doctor ordered an ultrasound, followed by a mammogram based on the initial findings. The mammogram showed an abnormal mass, and the radiologist recommended she see a breast surgeon. Unsure how to find the right specialist and move forward, Rebecca once again turned to Summus for guidance.

Using its proprietary Lighthouse™ Physician Referral Engine, the Summus team identified a highly regarded breast surgeon just 10 miles from Rebecca’s home who had availability within the week. The Summus team also helped Rebecca collect and organize her records and prepared her for the appointment with a list of questions and goals.

After connecting with the Summusrecommended breast surgeon, Rebecca undergoes a biopsy. Pathology confirms a diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Her surgeon initiates further testing, including hormone receptor status and imaging to better understand the disease and begin planning treatment.

Rebecca’s breast surgeon recommended moving orward with surgery. She explained that if invasive cancer is found in the final pathology, chemotherapy or other treatments may be needed. Feeling overwhelmed, Rebecca reached back out to Summus for guidance and support.

The next day, Rebecca reconnected with her Summus MD to review her biopsy, images, testing results, and recommendation for surgery. The Summus MD recommended speaking with a specialist for an in-depth video consultation.

Eight days later, Summus arranged a consultation with Dr. Mark Pegram, Director of the Breast Oncology Program at Stanford, who reviewed Rebecca’s records and supported the plan for surgery. He addressed her questions about radiation, chemotherapy, and other treatments, and when each may be needed based on the postsurgical pathology report. Rebecca left the conversation feeling informed and reassured.

Rebecca proceeded with a lumpectomy and a sample was sent to pathology to determine if additional treatments would be needed. Pathology revealed that her cancer was intermediate-grade, and her surgeon discussed the possibility of radiation as a next step to reduce the risk of local recurrence, referring her to a radiation oncologist and medical oncologist.

Hesitant about radiation, Rebecca reconnected with Dr. Mark Pegram through Summus. He reviewed her pathology along with her concerns about radiation and encouraged her to discuss hormonal therapy options with her medical oncologist.

Taking Dr. Pegram’s recommendations, Rebecca met with the medical oncologist she was referred to. After reviewing her pathology - showing small DCIS with clear margins - the oncologist discussed both radiation and hormonal therapy. Given Rebecca’s preferences and low-risk features, they agreed on starting hormonal therapy with close monitoring, allowing her to defer radiation at this time.

Throughout her treatment, Rebecca accessed additional Summus services, including:

• Lifestyle medicine consultations for nutrition guidance
• Mental health support to help her manage the emotional toll of treatment
• Practical strategies for managing treatment side effects and staying resilient

After completing her treatment, Rebecca consulted her Summus MD to discuss long-term health planning. Together, they developed a personalized recovery and surveillance plan, including:

• A schedule for follow-up screenings
• Lifestyle adjustments to support recovery and reduce recurrence risk
• Genetic counseling to assess cancer risk for her young children
• Ongoing mental health support to navigate health anxiety
• Guidance from oncology social worker to help navigate work and family life post-treatment

With Summus by her side, Rebecca gained fast access to the right doctors, felt more prepared at every step, and made confident decisions throughout her cancer journey. She was informed and knowledgeable about all her treatment options, which enabled her to advocate for her preferences. Today, she’s focused on healing, staying healthy — and being present for what matters most.