Breast Cancer Survivor in The Woodlands Shares Message of Hope, Urges Women to Get Screened
When Donya Russell first felt a sharp pain in her left breast, she didn’t expect it would lead to a life-changing diagnosis. But that pain led to imaging at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital — and soon after, news no one wants to hear: invasive ductal carcinoma, the most common form of breast cancer in women.
Now, after months of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, Russell has emerged cancer-free — and with a story she hopes can save lives.
“I never walked this journey alone,” said Russell. “From my doctors to my nurses, to the pharmacist who explained every medication and side effect, to the volunteers who checked on us – everyone cared for me and my family with such kindness.”
Her message for Breast Cancer Awareness Month is one of urgency and love: don’t delay your screenings.
A Personal Journey Through Breast Cancer
After Russell’s partial mastectomy, pathology reports revealed the cancer had already reached her lymph nodes. What began as surgery alone quickly evolved into a full regimen of chemotherapy, followed by radiation. The emotional toll was heavy.
“Finding out I needed chemo was one of the hardest moments,” she said. “I thought I could handle everything else, but that was overwhelming. Still, I knew I would get through it -- I just didn’t want to lose my hair after already losing my breast.”
Donya Russell stands surrounded by her supportive family and friends at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital Donya’s story is not unique — but her resilience and openness are inspiring many across The Woodlands and Montgomery County, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital provided a collaborative, whole-patient approach to care. A coordinated team of oncologists, nurses, pharmacists, and social workers helped tailor a treatment plan that included hormone therapy and neuropathy prevention strategies — critical, as African American women are at a higher risk of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
“Donya had an extremely positive attitude and truly focused on completing her cancer treatment, and she was very engaged and proactive in her journey,” said Dr. Priya Ramshesh, medical oncologist and medical director of Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at The Woodlands.
Breast Cancer in the United States: A National Picture
According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 298,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in U.S. women this year. While early detection and treatment have significantly improved survival rates, Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women — largely due to later diagnoses and disparities in care access.
Routine mammograms remain the most effective tool in catching breast cancer early. When found early and confined to the breast, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.
Russell’s story drives home the importance of catching cancer early. “Don’t skip your mammogram,” she said. “I was behind on mine, and while we caught it early, it could have been even earlier. No one likes getting a mammogram, but it can save your life.”
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Support that Lasts Beyond Treatment
Houston Methodist offers more than medical treatment — it provides a community of support. Nurse navigators like Regina Batza help guide patients from diagnosis to survivorship, connecting them with counselors, chaplains, dietitians, and support groups.
“Care at Houston Methodist is about treating the whole person – physically, emotionally and spiritually,” said Batza.
For Russell, one of the greatest comforts during treatment was joining the breast cancer support group at Houston Methodist — a group she still attends as a survivor. “Now I go back to encourage others and to tell them they can get through it too,” she said.
Moving Forward with Faith and Purpose
Russell has turned her experience into advocacy. She’s now working on a book about her journey and continues to support fellow patients through peer encouragement.
“I want others to know that even in the chaos of cancer there is still joy to be found,” she shared. “I’m always a glass half-full person, and I can’t wish this never happened because of the closeness it brought my family and the lessons I’ve learned.”
Donya Russell rings the victory bell, marking the end of chemotherapy on June 3, 2025. Wearing her “Fighter” shirt, As October begins, her voice joins the chorus of survivors urging women across Texas and beyond to listen to their bodies, schedule their screenings, and know they’re never alone.
Resources for Patients in The Woodlands and Greater Houston
Houston Methodist offers a full range of breast cancer resources, including:
- Genetic Counseling
- Breast Cancer Support Groups
- Oncology Social Work Services
- Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy
- Nutrition Consultations
- HEAL Program for Survivorship (Health Education and Learning)
Keep following My Neighborhood News for more local health updates and inspiring survivor stories across Greater Houston.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
