Turning a Cancer Diagnosis into Advocacy: Rossalynn’s Story

When Annapolis business executive Rossalynn Abbott Ripper was diagnosed with breast cancer, she did not want chemotherapy. She asked her oncologist, Dr. Young Lee of Luminis Health, if she could skip it.

“Dr. Lee is incredibly supportive and encouraging. She talked to me about chemotherapy and why I needed it and answered all of my questions,” Ripper said.

Ripper was concerned about losing her hair. Dr. Lee introduced her to scalp cooling, which can help patients retain their hair during chemotherapy. Ripper chose to approach chemotherapy and scalp cooling with a positive mindset, and she was grateful to complete treatment with her hair intact.

Today, she advocates for scalp cooling coverage for all cancer patients, while also running a business and raising her 16-year-old son.

As for her treatment, Ripper said, “The nurses at Luminis Health are life-changing. To have a smiling face and a hug when you’re going through treatment is so powerful.”

To learn more about cancer treatment at Luminis Health, visit Luminis.Health/CancerCare.