Cherise Perry Russell
MARCH 2026 CALENDAR
In March 2019, at age 50, I went in for a routine mammogram. I was told to wait for the radiologist. She entered the room and proceeded to tell me that I had breast cancer. My husband and I were both in shock. Despite the devastating news, I went to work. At 3 PM, my gynecologist called to confirm the diagnosis. "You do have breast cancer," he said. "I will get the best oncologist on your case.”
Twenty minutes later, I received a call from Renee, who was assisting Dr. Silber at the time. Renee, my angel at Yale, was a guiding light through the darkest days. Her encouragement, kindness, and strength were constant, and she still holds a special place in my heart. She will always be family to me.
After my diagnosis, I chose to tell very few people. I didn't want sympathy. I didn't want people to feel sorry for me. I just wanted life to go on as if I had never been diagnosed. My plan was simple: have surgery, complete treatment and return to work like nothing ever happened. Even now, I still struggle with speaking openly about it. But I'm working on that. As my sister told me, "You have the opportunity to share your journey with someone who will need to hear it."
There were countless doctor visits. My surgery was in June 2019. I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in my left breast and underwent a partial mastectomy with reconstruction. Following surgery, I had 15 rounds of chemotherapy and 30 days of radiation treatment. I'm now on a 10-year hormone therapy plan.
I'm incredibly grateful for the love and support I've received. My husband, beautiful daughters and sisters were with me every step of the way. Even though my sisters don't live nearby, they never left my side. My sister Mona, who lives in Westchester, came to every doctor's appointment with my husband and me. She said we needed a third ear! I don't think she knows just how much we love and appreciate her for that.
Every Friday for three months, I had chemotherapy. Without fail, my Dance family sent me flowers each week, not to mention at every chemo session. I had countless family members keeping me company. I've been so fortunate to have my girls, my husband, and my village surrounding me with love and strength. Their support has been nothing short of amazing and I'm grateful from the bottom of my heart. Today, I'm beyond blessed to say I've been cancer-free for seven years.
The journey was long and difficult, but through prayer and faith, God covered me–and continues to do so. I discovered strength, patience, and trust I never knew I had. I stayed busy and kept my mind engaged by continuing my daily routines. I am truly blessed and thank God every day!