www.montereycountynow.com OCTOBER 17-23, 2024 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 5 For more information on our cancer services, visit SalinasValleyHealth.com/cancer or call 831-759-1951. To learn more and watch the Villegas‘ story, scan the QR code. In early 2023 Araceli Villegas was diagnosed with a genetic form of breast cancer. Shortly afterwards, Hong Zhao, MD, recommended that her fraternal twin be checked. Unfortunately, Angelica also tested positive. The National Breast Cancer Foundation estimates that one in eight women, or approximately 12%, will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. “When they tell you ‘you have cancer,’ the first thing that goes through your head is that ‘I’m going to die,’“ said Araceli Villegas. “I [was] always happy to see Dr. Zhao on Fridays. Her angel voice gave me that comfort that I was going to be okay.” Courageous Hearts: Navigating Breast Cancer Araceli Villegas (left) and fraternal twin Angelica Villegas navigated breast cancer together. “If I can do it, you can do it too!” — Angelica Villegas Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Early detection can save lives. Schedule your mammography screening today.
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