Beverly Gregory - “Turning Carolina Blue”

Beverly Gregory, Lillington, NC

Beverly Gregory states clearly her opinion about having breast cancer. "I refuse to be ashamed for having cancer. I didn't pick it; it picked me. And I’m dealing with it."

Gregory had a routine mammogram in September, 2005. Her older sister had died of breast cancer, so she was vigilant about screening. "I was called back for additional x-rays and a sonogram and then advised to have a biopsy." A Stage One cancer was revealed, and Gregory wanted to begin therapy immediately. "I was told by my oncologist in Fayetteville to come to UNC Lineberger. He was my sister's oncologist, and I trusted his judgement entirely."

Because of her family history, she was referred for genetic testing through the Cancer Genetics multidisciplinary program and tested positive for the BRCA 1 gene. With this news, and following genetic counseling, she decided to have a double mastectomy followed by chemotherapy and reconstructive surgery.

"Everyone at UNC was wonderful to me," she explained. "Beth Fogel, the nurse coordinator, tracked me down in the hospital during my pre-care appointment to give me a pink survivor's ribbon before my surgery. Dr. Ollila was thorough and detailed in his discussions with me and listened to what my priorities were."

Gregory is a "huge NC State fan. Both my children went there, but I’m turning bluer by the day because I am so appreciative of the care I have received at UNC."

What I tell newly diagnosed cancer patients is "the worst part is the first, before anything is done. Emotionally, that's the most difficult. Once you have a treatment plan developed, you know you’re doing something, and you'll feel better."

Beverly and her husband, Glenn, own a jewelry shop in Lillington, NC. They have a daughter, 26, and a son, 22 who attends NCSU.