From Noticing a Lump to Fighting Back: Allie Hartung’s Story
Disclaimer: Know Your Lemons deeply values and respects the experiences and stories shared by breast cancer patients. The advice, statements, or facts presented in these narratives may not necessarily Align with medical expertise or be universally applicable to every individual’s situation. Breast cancer is a complex and highly individualized medical condition, and while these stories offer valuable insights and emotional support, they should not substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and decision-making regarding breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management. Know Your Lemons encourages a collaborative approach between patients, caregivers, and medical professionals to ensure the best possible care and outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.
Say hello to Allie!
Hello, lovely readers! Today we’re sharing the story of Allie Hartung, who works for a non-profit that helps human trafficking survivors in Nashville, TN.
In her day-to-day life, Allei enjoys starting and stopping new crafts, listening to live music, and trying new coffee shops. She packed up and moved to Nashville without ever visiting, with no job, and no place to live but has thrived here for 10 years, found a great community and recently bought her own home!
Her Breast Cancer Story
Allie’s breast cancer journey began when she went to the doctors regarding a lump in her rib cage. Two doctors told her it wasn’t a big deal and that it was probably just a lymph node. Allie did have a Gynecology appointment coming up, and felt inclined to tell that doctor about it as well, who ended up sending her in for an ultrasound.
At that appointment, the doctor said, “well this does look like a lymph node, but this doesn't,” referring to another suspicious lump. She moved the monitor over and found a cancerous lump.
Allie says that she feels incredibly lucky that it was found at stage 1A. Because it was found that early, it was very easy to get out. Allie recently finished chemotherapy and has just a few rounds of radiation left!
Meeting Know Your Lemons
Because of her diagnosis, Allie was driven to find organizations that explained what breast cancer was like to young people. She found that the Know Your Lemons materials make it easy to explain symptoms of breast cancer, especially for people her age.
“And I was really grateful for those because it made it really easy to describe to others kind of what to look for. I'm very excited to have found this organization.”
Allie hopes her story encourages others to understand the importance of early detection and how to advocate for themselves.
Take Action Today
Stories like Allie’s highlight the importance of understanding the signs of breast cancer and knowing what’s normal for your body.
The Know Your Lemons app helps make breast health education simple and accessible. With visual guides, reminders, and step-by-step self-check instructions, the app empowers people to learn the signs and take charge of their health.
Ready to take the first step?
Download the Know Your Lemons app today and join the movement for breast health awareness and early detection. 💛🍋
Allie’s Story
Transcript: Hello, my name is Allie Hartung. I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age 31, just two days before my 32nd birthday.
I usually tell people that I found my breast cancer through pure luck. I had gone to the doctor for a completely unrelated lump near my rib cage. Two doctors told me it was just a lymph node and nothing to worry about. Fortunately, I already had a gynecology appointment scheduled, so I mentioned it there as well.
My gynecologist sent me for an ultrasound. During the appointment, the radiologist said, "This does look like a lymph node, but this doesn't," and moved the monitor to another area. That's when she found the lump in my breast.
I was very grateful that it was caught early. I was diagnosed with Stage 1A breast cancer, which meant treatment could begin right away. I feel very blessed that it was found when it was.
After my diagnosis, I started looking for simple ways to explain breast cancer signs to other young women my age. That's when I discovered Know Your Lemons and the educational graphics they provide. I was incredibly grateful because they made it easy to understand and share what to look for.
As I learned more about the organization, I became even more connected to its mission. I recently finished chemotherapy and only have a few rounds of radiation left before completing treatment.
I'm so thankful I found this organization and the resources they provide. I want to do whatever I can to help younger women understand that advocating for your own health is important, and that knowing what to look for can make all the difference.
