Twins take a proactive approach to breast cancer
Growing up as identical twins, Stefanie usually went first. When Samantha was nervous about new things, like a trip down the water slide or getting sixth-grade shots, Stefanie would leap, and Samantha would follow. Decades later, the sisters found themselves facing something much bigger. This time, Samantha went first.
A proactive approach and early detection
Samantha had a proactive approach to her breast health because she knew she had dense breast tissue. She was a part of Ascension Wisconsin’s Cancer Prevention and Wellness Program at Ascension St. Elizabeth, which helps identify people at increased risk for cancer and creates individualized plans for screening, prevention and risk reduction.
“We look closely at personal and family history, genetics and previous screenings to understand someone’s risk,” said Riann Collar, a provider with the program. “The goal is to decrease that risk when we can or find cancer earlier, when treatment is often less extensive and more effective.”
That additional screening made all the difference for Samantha. In January 2026, a breast MRI detected an area of concern that led to further testing. On February 24, she learned she had stage 0 ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, and the tumor was growing quickly.
The next day, Samantha met with breast surgeon Dr. Tjoe, who spent hours with Samantha and her family, walking through her diagnosis, answering questions and explaining each treatment option.
Compassionate care made the choice clear
After understanding the options, Samantha chose a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. Throughout surgery and recovery, Dr. Tjoe was a trusted partner, checking on her personally and advocating for her when complications arose.
“When she’s your doctor, she is your biggest supporter,” Samantha said. “I trust her with all my heart.”
Samantha’s diagnosis changed what breast cancer risk looked like for her identical twin. Stefanie decided to take part in the Cancer Prevention and Wellness Program, completed additional screening and learned her estimated lifetime risk was about 42%.
Although her screenings showed no cancer, Stefanie decided to have a preventive bilateral mastectomy. After watching the care her sister received, choosing Dr. Tjoe was easy.
“I watched my sister go through something incredibly difficult and still knew I wanted to do it with the same team,” Stefanie said. “Dr. Tjoe made us feel like everything was taken care of. Nothing felt rushed, and no question ever felt like too much. Although she knew me from my sister’s case, she made sure that my plan was individualized to myself and my family.”
Facing the future together
Stefanie stayed beside Samantha throughout her cancer journey. After surgery, Stefanie recovered at Samantha’s home, where her sister already knew how to help with drains, dressings and the many challenges that come with recovery.
“I was always the one who went first when we were kids because she was more nervous,” Stefanie said. “This time, she went first for me. She showed me what to expect and made it less scary.”
Early detection allowed Samantha to treat her cancer at stage 0. Knowing her own risk allowed Stefanie to make a proactive decision about her health. Together, with a care team they trusted, each sister made an educated decision that they knew was right for them.
