A shocking diagnosis that changed everything
LaShae D. Rolle was only 26 when she received the kind of call no one ever wants to get. She was diagnosed with multicentric breast cancer in October 2023, even though she was repeatedly told she was “too young” to have it. At the time, she was working toward her Ph.D. in cancer prevention.
Doctors initially dismissed her concerns after she found a lump in her breast. Because she was young, they believed it wasn’t serious. Rolle, however, trusted her instincts and pushed for further testing. Her determination saved her life.
“It was difficult even for me to get the mammogram and ultrasound,” Rolle said. “They told me, ‘You’re too young to get breast cancer.’ I said, ‘Well, still sign me up for that ultrasound.’”
Early detection saves lives
Rolle’s experience reveals why early detection and self-advocacy are critical for young women, especially Black women who often face delayed or dismissed care. Her lump was initially brushed off in 2022. But when she insisted on a mammogram a year later, the cancer was found.
Many people associate breast cancer screenings with women over 40. Rolle’s case proves it can happen earlier. Her diagnosis led to a full mastectomy and aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation.
“What happened to me is rare. But that doesn’t mean it can’t happen to you,” she said. “Always know what your ‘normal’ feels like. If something feels off, see a doctor and don’t be discouraged.”
Fighting to be heard in a system that often ignores Black women
Rolle’s journey also highlights a painful truth. Black women often have to fight to be taken seriously in healthcare settings. She learned to speak up for herself when doctors dismissed her symptoms not once, but multiple times.
Her advocacy didn’t stop after her surgery. When she later experienced a blood clot in her lung, doctors almost missed it again. “They said, ‘This is not a surgery where you can get blood clots.’ I told them, ‘Do the CT anyway.’ That saved my life again,” Rolle shared.
Her story reflects the power of persistence, especially for Black women navigating health systems that can overlook or minimize their concerns.
Redefining strength after breast cancer
For Rolle, surviving cancer isn’t just about beating a disease. It’s about showing up for herself every single day. She has learned to honor her body, trust her instincts, and embrace the strength that carried her through treatment.
“I learned you have to get to know your body and know your normal,” she said. “And you have to advocate for yourself. Nobody’s going to care about you more than you.”
Rolle also hopes to show other survivors that they can live fully beyond treatment. She encourages exercise, joy, and self-love as part of recovery. “You’re strong after cancer, no matter what,” she said.
A message for Black women everywhere
Now, Rolle is using her voice to empower others. She speaks openly about her journey to remind young Black women that they are never “too young” to pay attention to their health. She also wants them to feel confident advocating for themselves, even when their voices are ignored.
“If I had waited until the recommended screening age, I wouldn’t be here,” she said. “It’s better to ‘waste people’s time’ than regret not speaking up.”
Her story is a rallying cry—a reminder that trusting your body can save your life.
