Breast Cancer Survivors 10-20 Years

2016

Breast Cancer Survivor ME - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Agnes Rivera – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Estrellita Santos – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor GDG - 10 Years in Remission (35 years old at time of MRM - 2006)

Breast Cancer Survivor MJ Angelias – 10 Years in Remission

2017

Breast Cancer Survivor Anna Marie Cruz – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Carol Valenzuela – 14 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Febe Hipos – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Lucila Carrasco - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Priscilla Calimon - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Helen Sison - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Urbana Bulayan – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Ester Santos – 13 Years in Remission

2018

Breast Cancer Survivor Sharon Belveder – 11 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Myrna Sismaet – 11 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor ArleneAy – 11 Years in Remission (2021 - 14 Years in Remission)

Breast Cancer Survivor Belen Villa – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Irene Marmita – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Gilda Montesclaros-Kibtiani – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Marites Pascua – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Arsenia Sandoval – 13 Years in Remission

2019

Breast Cancer Survivor Mercy Alvaran - 12 Years in Remission (updated - in 2023)

Breast Cancer Survivor FT – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Aida Padiernos – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Gloria Hortellano – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Jennifer Pereyra– 12 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor NenitaM – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Johanna Gopaco – 10 Years in Remission

2020

Breast Cancer Survivor Corazon Bermudez – 10 Years in Remission (14 Years as of January 2025)

Breast Cancer Survivor Basilisa Aquino – 10 Years in Remission (14 Years  in Remission as of 2024)

Breast Cancer Survivor Florifis Barrameda – 16 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Rosario Dorado – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Nena Raya – 10 Years in Remission

2022

Breast Cancer Survivor Ebony Domingo – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Lolit Garcia – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Lourdes Gapac -11 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Ligaya Flores -10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Alicia Coronel – 13 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Mercedes Canuel -12 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Lenita Miranda -11 Years in Remission

2023 

Breast Cancer Survivor Jocelyn Morente – 11 Years in Remission (died of heart condition - 2024)

Breast Cancer Survivor Penny Marcelino – 12 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Lisa Hisita – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Mary Ann Maravilla – 12 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Shirley Maaba - 10 Years in Remission 

Breast Cancer Survivor Emiliana Ferrer - 14 Years in Remission (died of heart condition at age 100)

Breast Cancer Survivor Mercy Alvaran - 16 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Michelle Gratuito – 13 Years in Remission

2024

Breast Cancer Survivor Resureccion Duenas – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Carmen Shok He – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Febe Caldino – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Elena Hisoler – 11 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Mely Ngo – 11 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Teresita Azurin – 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Jocelyn Espiritu – 10 Years in Remission

2025

Breast Cancer Survivor Virginia Calixto – 13 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Esther Dove - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Emelita Enriquez - 12 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Amy Calatrava - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Paciencia Duran - 13 Years in Remission

Breast and Colon Cancer Survivor Aster Calogne - 11 and 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Paz Ostonal - 17 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Joan Uy - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Marita Pilapil - 13 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Edith Limbo - 12 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Norma Villacorte - more than 10 Years in Remission (as of Dec 6, 2025 - will confirm exact years soon)

Breast Cancer Survivor Carmelita Santos - more than 10 Years in Remission (see report from relative on Dec 6, 2025)

Patient's name: 

Dr. Carmelita D. Santos

2001- Dx for breast cancer, left

         - Tx mastectomy by Dr. Rey Joson 

           Chemo,Tamoxipen (age: 65y.o.)

2019 - had a chest surgery, left part  of the lung (age: 83y.o.) U.S.

2022 -  Dx with lung metastasis

2023 - she passed away 

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Breast Cancer Survivor Belen Gatdula – 10 Years in Remission

2016

February 2016

Breast Cancer Survivor ME - 10 Years in Remission

Breast cancer, right, invasive ductal carcinoma, Stage 2, at age 39.

No chemotherapy.  No radiotherapy.

We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Agnes Rivera – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on March 3, 2016by reyojoson

Ms. Agnes Rivera was 38 years old when I operated on her breast cancer.  I did a wide excision.  She was one of those rare patients with multiple macrocysts associated with breast cancer.   She is now 48 years old still with recurring macrocysts which I just aspirated every now and then.  However, she is cancer free – 10 years in remission.  We both thanked God for this long remission.

Note: One week after her 10th anniversary from the breast cancer operation, Agnes came to tell me that she is already a Cancer Survivor and told me to include her in my master list of Cancer Survivors and that she is entitled to have a picture taken with me.  I am happy to see her and I assumed, my other cancer patients as well, looking forward to 10 years of remission.  With this, I can say my Cancer Survivor Registry has served its purpose well – inspiring, motivating and bringing hope to all my cancer patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Estrellita Santos – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on March 8, 2016by reyojoson

Ms. Estrellita Santos was 55 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in Manila Doctors Hospital in January 25, 2006.  She did not receive any additional postoperative treatment.  She is now 65 years old and cancer free, 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor MJ Angelias – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on April 7, 2016by reyojoson

MJ Angelias was 46 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer.  She received chemotherapy postoperatively.  She is now 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Anna Marie Cruz – 10 Years in Remission

Dr. Anna Marie Cruz, a pediatrician, was 40 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in February 8, 2007.  She received chemotherapy postoperatively.  She came to see me on February 9, 2017 to proudly and happily announce that is now 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Carol Valenzuela – 14 Years in Remission

Ms. Carol Valenzuela was 34 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in September 14, 2002. She received no additional treatment. She is now 48 years old. Most recently, she came to see me to proudly and happily announce that she is now 14 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Febe Hipos – 10 Years in Remission

by reyojoson

Ms. Febe Hipos was 55 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in June 13, 2007.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma (3 cm) with 9 positive nodes.  Her ERA, PRA, and HER-2-NEU showed positive results.   She received 6 cycles of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy and 5 years of tamoxifen.

She visited me today, June 27, 2017, and happily told me she is now 10 years in remission and would like to be part of my Cancer Survivors Registry to serve as an inspiration.  Yes. she is now 10 years in remission at age 65.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Lucia Carrasco – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on July 6, 2017by reyojoson

Ms. Lucia Carrasco was 58 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in 2007.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma with negative nodes.  She did not receive any additional postoperative treatment.  Just surveillance (symptom-sign-directed with regular clinical examination).

She visited me today, July 6, 2017 and happily told me she is now 10 years in remission and without any additional postoperative treatment.  We had a selfie taken.  She asked me to post our picture in my Cancer Survivors Registry.  She is proud of it.  She likes to serve as an inspiration to other people.  She is now 68 years old.  Again, 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Lucia Carrasco- 12 Years in Remission

Posted on October 11, 2018by reyojoson

Ms. Lucia Carrasco was 58 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in 2007.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma.  Nodes were negative. ERA and PRA were positive and HER-2-NEU was negative.  She did not want any additional treatment.   NO hormonal therapy.  She is now 70 years with no signs of recurrence.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Priscilla Calimon – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on July 9, 2017by reyojoson

Ms. Priscilla Calimon was 46 years old when I did a subtotal mastectomy on her breast cancer in March 2007.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma, 2 cm.  She chose and decided on the option of subtotal mastectomy with no additional treatment thereafter, just surveillance using symptom-sign-directed approach with regular clinical examination and diagnostic tests as needed.

She visited me July 8, 2017.  She is now 56 years old, 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Helen Sison – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on July 16, 2017by reyojoson

Ms. Helen Sison was 64 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in July 2007.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma 2.4  cm with 2 lymph nodes positive for spread.  She decided to take tamoxifen for 5 years after the operation.  She is now 74 years old, 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.  (Published with permission from Ms. Helen Sison.)

Breast Cancer Survivor Urbana Bulayan – 10 Years in Remission

by reyojoson

Ms. Urbana Bulayan was 58 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in September 2007.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma 4 cm with negative spread to the axillary lymph node.  She decided to take tamoxifen for 5 years after the operation.  She is now 68 years old, 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.  (Published with permission from Ms. Bulayan and daughter Joyce)

Breast Cancer Survivor Ester Santos – 13 Years in Remission

Posted on October 3, 2017by reyojoson

Ms. Ester Santos was 61 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in 2004.   She took Tamoxifen postoperatively.  She is now 74 years old, 13 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.  (Published with permission)

Breast Cancer Survivor Sharon Belveder – 11 Years in Remission

Posted on May 2, 2018by reyojoson

2018 May 2

Eleven years ago (2007), I operated on Sharon Belveder in Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center.  I did a partial mastectomy with axillary dissection.  The axillary lymph nodes were negative for metastasis.  She did not have any additional treatment afterwards.  She just had regular check-up with me.  We both thank God for this long remission.  (Published with Permission from Sharon)

Breast Cancer Survivor Myrna Sismaet – 11 Years in Remission

Eleven years ago (2007), I operated on Myrna Sismaet in Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center.  She was 59 years old at that time.  I did a modified radical mastectomy.   She took only tamoxifen for 5 years without other treatment.  She went abroad in 2011 where she continued her checkup.  She is now back in the Philippines for good. Lately, she came to me for check-up.  At age 70, she is now 11 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Published with permission.  She wants to inspire other people with this publication.

Breast Cancer Survivor ArleneAy – 11 Years in Remission in 2018 (2021 - 14 Years in Remission)

Ms. ArleneAy was 44 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in 2007.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma.  She underwent additional treatment in the form of chemotherapy and 5 years of tamoxifen. She is now 55 years old, 11 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

April 7, 2021 - 57 years old - in remission going 14 years by September 2021.

Breast Cancer Survivor Belen Villa – 10 Years in Remission

by reyojoson

Ms. Belen Villa was 78 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in 2008.  The histopathology report showed invasive ductal carcinoma.  Nodes were negative. She underwent additional treatment in the form of Tamoxifen for 10 years. She is now 88 years old, 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Irene Marmita – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Irene Marmita from Tacloban, Leyte, was 52 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in September 1, 2008 at the Philippine General Hospital.  Nodes were positive and ERA was negative.  For this reason, she received 6 cycles of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy at the Breast Care Center of the Philippine General Hospital.  In 2012, she developed an abdominal mass, for which I initially suspected metastasis.  However, it turned out to a non-specific retroperitoneal cyst.  I just excised the mass in the Philippine General Hospital.  Lately, October 20, 2018, I saw and evaluated her.  At age 62, and 10 years after her mastectomy, she has no clinical signs of recurrence. She is 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Irene Marmita gave me permission to post our photo to inspire other people with breast cancers.

Ms. Irene Marmita is registered as the 130th Cancer Survivor in my ROJoson Cancer Survivor Registry which track cancer patients whom I have treated somehow and who are in remission for 10 and more years.

Breast Cancer Survivor Gilda Montesclaros-Kibtiani – 10 Years in Remission

by reyojoson

I am a 10 years BREAST CANCER STAGE 2 SURVIVOR today October 21, 2018

To God be the glory! Thank you dear God for giving me this far. Thank you for the gift of life.

It was 10 years ago October 11, 2008, when I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma (through Needle Biopsy) by Dra. Maya Lim. I was 33 years old then, was married to my husband of 11 years, had two kids ages 10 and 6, my son and daughter respectively. I was working in the government, Zamboecozone.

I thought it was the end of my life, I thought there was no hope, but when I thought of my kids who were still young at that time. I urged myself to be the strongest that I can be to fight my battle for the sake of my precious children. 

My mom and I needed to fly to Manila to look for the best breast cancer doctor in our country, and thanks to our Zamboecozone company doctor by that time, Dr. Hernandez, who referred me to the best, Dr.Reynaldo O Joson of Manila Doctors Hospital.

I had a right mastectomy performed by Dr. Joson and company on October 21, 2008 (10 years ago). Good thing the results of the 10 lymp nodes were all negative. So my doctor told me that I don’t need chemotheraphy. But I am a siguresta type of person so I chose to undergo chemotherapy. 

I had 7 sessions out of 8, monitored by Dr. Cerillo at Brent Hospital, Zamboanga City, who gave me confidence and answered all my questions. On the second day after my 7th chemo I went to office for work, I thought I was okey, but I was not, my colleagues (Thanks to Engr. Reynaldo R. Misanesand company) rushed me to the hospital, 45 mins away from our office, because I couldn’t breathe. Thank God I was still alive when we reach the hospital. That was the reason I didn’t finish my chemo session.

Every after chemotheraphy session it’s like a between life and death for me, I couldn’t imagine the feeling, it was like something alien got inside my body, I vomit, the nuesea, I couldn’t eat and everything…

I can still remember my kids crying, everytime my son did the dressing of my wound, and my daughter giving me a bath for two weeks. It was like the worst time of our lives as a family. I was blessed to have my family and friends throughout my breast cancer battle. My children were my source of strength to fight and be brave every chemotheraphy. My husband though he was not with me personally at that time (OFW) made sure that we were in this fight together. My mom who was with me all the time in Manila. My co-workers and friends who truly by that time gave their encouragement and support and told me I can make it. One of them even stayed in our house to be the guardian of my children when I was hospitalized in Manila (Manang Helen Grace P. Natividad). Really, it was in those times that you will really know who your real friends are. We must find our own sources of strength and comfort to sustain our journey. Each one of us must deal with the diagnosis in our own way and do what works the best for us.

Yes, life is not the same as I knew it prior to breast cancer but it has become even more special and meaningful. I have learned to appreciate each precious moment and I consider each one of those days as priceless blessings. I have met and knew the most beautiful people you could ever imagine while on this journey. My cancer diagnosis and how my family and friends reacted to it made me realize what it feels like to be surrounded by people who truly and will always love you despite of the hardships and the roller coaster of life . It reminded me to never take the people you love for granted.

Gilda Montesclaros-Kibtiani

Breast Cancer Survivor 

Posted in Facebook - October 20, 2018 by Gilda herself - she was proud and happy of the posting.

In September 2017

Congratulations, I was surprised but happy to see the above posting of yours. I am happy to see you are now a breast cancer survivor (based on the criterion of remission of 10 years that I have been using for my breast cancer registry). I am also happy for this posting in which you narrated your journey to be a breast cancer survivor. Lastly, I am happy you voluntarily posted this personal experience of yours so to serve as an inspiration to all people with breast cancers and those who may develop breast cancer in the future. Welcome to the Club of Breast Cancer Survivors. If you don’t mind, I will now register you as the 131st cancer survivor in my personal registry of cancer survivors (patients with cancer whom I have treated and who are in remission for 10 and more years). I thank God for your long remission. I will continue to pray for your continued remission. I will continue to include you in my daily rosary prayer. Continue to keep in touch with me. This is one of my slices of happiness, contentment and enjoyment as a physician.

ROJ@18oct20

In July 2017

AN ILLUSTRATION OF HOW GILDA LOOKS FORWARD TO HER 10th YEAR SURVIVORSHIP.

Ms. Gilda Kibtiani is registered as the 131st Cancer Survivor in my ROJoson Cancer Survivor Registry which tracks cancer patients whom I have treated somehow and who are in remission for 10 and more years.

Breast Cancer Survivor Marites Pascua – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Marites Pascua from Cagayan Valley, was 43 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in October 29, 2008. Size of tumor was 3.5 cm and nodes were negative. ERA and PRA were positive; HER-2-NEU was positive. She took tamoxifen for 5 years. She is now 53 years old. She has no clinical signs of recurrence. She is 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Marites Pascua gave me permission to post our photo to inspire other people with breast cancers.  She also proudly posted her 10th anniversary in her Facebook timeline on October 23, 2018.

Ms. Marites Pascua is registered as the 132th Cancer Survivor in my ROJoson Cancer Survivor Registry which tracks cancer patients whom I have treated somehow and who are in remission for 10 and more years.

Breast Cancer Survivor Arsenia Sandoval – 13 Years in Remission

Posted on November 26, 2018by reyojoson

Ms. Arsenia Sandoval from Batangas was 51 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in 2005.  The histopath showed mucinous carcinoma. The size of tumor was 2 cm and nodes were negative.  She did not take any form of adjuvant postoperative treatment.  She is now 64 years old with no clinical evidence of recurrence, thus, 13 years in remission as of 2018.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Arsenia Sandoval gave me permission to post our photo to inspire other people with breast cancers.

Ms. Sandoval is registered as the 133rd Cancer Survivor in my ROJoson Cancer Survivor Registry which tracks cancer patients whom I have treated somehow and who are in remission for 10 and more years.

2019

Breast Cancer Survivor M. Alvaran – 12 Years in Remission  - see update in 2023 below (16 years in remission)

Ms. M. Alvaran underwent modified radical mastectomy in 2007 by another surgeon. She came to me thereafter for opinion whether she needed chemotherapy which was being recommended by a medical oncologist. I presented to her all the different options and pros and cons. She decided not to have chemotherapy, just hormonal therapy.

She is very happy with her decision. She has been under my medical supervision after the her operation. She is now 12 years in remission as of February 14, 2019. We both thank God for this long remission. She asked me to include her in my cancer survivor registry to give inspiration to others.

2019

Breast Cancer Survivor FT – 10 Years in Remission

FT underwent modified radical mastectomy in January 2009.  She was 60 years old then.  She had tamoxifen for 5 years.  She is now 10 years in remission and enjoying her life.  She is now 70 years old.  She does not want people to know she had breast cancer.  We both thank God for this long remission.

2019

Breast Cancer Survivor Aida Padiernos – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on April 14, 2019by reyojoson

Ms. Aida Padiernos was 51 years old in 2008 when she underwent modified radical mastectomy by me.   The primary tumor was about 3 cm. Two nodes were positive for metastasis.  She underwent 6 cycles of CMF (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and fluorouracil) postoperatively.   She did not have radiotherapy nor hormonal therapy. Cancer surveillance was done using symptom-sign-directed approach.

By October 2019, she will be 11 years in remission.  She is now 62 years old.  At the moment, she is more than 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission. 

She has been looking forward to be included in my cancer survivor registry.  When she came for checkup on April 13, 2019, she asked me to have our picture taken and to include her in my cancer survivor registry to give inspiration to others.

I am happy to learn that she included having picture with me at 10 years in remission as part of her intentional life plan.  Having an intentional living plan and looking forward to be included in my cancer survivor registry, I believe, can contribute to long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Gloria Hortellano – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on April 28, 2019by reyojoson

Ms. Gloria Hortellano was 53 years old in April 27, 2009 when she underwent modified radical mastectomy by me.   The primary tumor was about 2.5 cm. Two nodes were positive for metastasis.  ERA / PRA were positive and HER-2-NUE was negative. She did not want to have chemotherapy after the operation.   She did not have radiotherapy, just hormonal therapy in the form of tamoxifen for 5 years. Cancer surveillance was done using symptom-sign-directed approach.

On April 27, 2019, at age 62 year old, she proudly came to me and said she is now a breast cancer survivor at 10 years and asked a picture taken with me and publicized to serve as an inspiration to others.  She is exactly 10 years in remission (April 27, 2009 to April 27, 2019).  We both thank God for this long remission.

I am happy to learn that she included having picture with me at 10 years in remission as part of her intentional life plan.  Having an intentional living plan and looking forward to be included in my cancer survivor registry, I believe, can contribute to long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Jennifer Pereyra– 12 Years in Remission

Posted on May 16, 2019by reyojoson

Ms. Jennifer Pereyra was 33 years old in 2007 when she underwent modified radical mastectomy by me.  Histopath showed invasive ductal carcinoma.  The primary tumor was about 4 cm. Nodes were negative for metastasis.  ERA / PRA were negative.  She underwent 6 cycles of CMF chemotherapy after the operation. Cancer surveillance was done using symptom-sign-directed approach.

On May 16, 2019, at age 44 years old, she proudly came to me and said she is now a breast cancer survivor at 12 years and asked a picture taken with me and publicized to serve as an inspiration to others.  She will be 12 years in remission by September 2019.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor NenitaM – 10 Years in Remission

by reyojoson

NenitaM underwent partial mastectomy in November 6, 2009 in Manila Doctors Hospital. She was 52 years old then.  She had a frozen section done but result was non-committal. So a wide excision was done. After the operation, the histopathology showed mucinous carcinoma.  She refused another operation.  She did not have receptor assays done. She had no additional treatment, just monitoring.  She decided on symptom-directed cancer surveillance. In November 2019, she is now 10 years in remission and enjoying her life.  She is now 62 years old.  She does not want people to know she had breast cancer.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Johanna Gopaco – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on November 16, 2019by reyojoson

Johanna Gopaco from Palawan underwent modified radical mastectomy in March 11, 2010 in Manila Doctors Hospital. She was 32 years old then.  Histopath: invasive ductal carcinoma with negative nodes. She underwent postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy (6 cycles of CAF) in Palawan.  After the chemotherapy, there was no other additional treatment.  She was on symptom-directed cancer surveillance. In March 10, 2020, 3 to 4 months from today (19nov16) [when she came to me for check-up],  she will be 10 years in remission.  She is now 42 years old.  She is happy and wants to serve as an inspiration to other breast cancer patients by having a picture with me.  We both thank God for this long remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Corazon Bermudez – 10 Years in Remission

Update: 14 years in remission as of January 2025.

Corazon Bermudez from Dipolog was 65 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy in 2010 in Manila Doctors Hospital.  Histopath: carcinoma-in-situ, 2.5 cm with negative nodes.  ERA and PRA were positive and HER-2-NEU was equivocal.  She was put on tamoxifen up to now.  She was on symptom-directed cancer surveillance. In January 21, 2020, she came to me for check-up.  She will be 10 years in remission by September 2020.  She is now 75 years old.  She is happy and wants to serve as an inspiration to other breast cancer patients by having a picture with me (also with her husband who has been supporting her all the while). We both thank God for this long remission.

Picture below taken in January 7, 2025 - 14 years in remission

Ms. Basilisa Aquino was 50 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in January 6, 2010.  Her primary tumor was 1.7 cm in size and nodes were negative.  She did not want any additional postop treatment nor any test like ERA, PRA, and HER-2-NEU.

At a recent check-up, February 2020, she showed no clinical sign of recurrence.  She is now 60 years old and 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission. She requested that she be included in my cancer survivor registry so as to inspire other people and patients with breast cancer.  She is now my 144th cancer survivor in the registry.

As of April 2024 - She is now 14 years in remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Florifis Barrameda – 16 Years in Remission

Posted on February 21, 2020by reyojoson

Ms. Florifis Barrameda was 44 years old when I did a wide excision on her breast cancer  (~2 cm) in April 26, 2004 in Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center.   In May 16, 2007, I did an axillary dissection because of a recurrence.  After the 2nd operation, she received 6 cycles of CMF.  No other postoperative treatments were done.  She just came for regular check-up.  She is now 60 years old with no signs of recurrence and therefore, 16 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.

She and her daughter, Roxanne, are thankful for this long remission that she and her they requested that she be included in my cancer survivor registry so as to inspire other people and patients with breast cancer.  She is now my 146th cancer survivor in the registry.

Breast Cancer Survivor Rosario Dorado – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on March 10, 2020by reyojoson

Ms. Rosario Dorado was 56 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer in October 8, 2010.  The tumor size was 2.8 cm. There was one positive node. ERA, PRA, and HER-2-Neu were negative. She received 6 cycles of chemo.  She is now 66 years old, in remission for 10 years (on October 8, 2020). We both thank God for this long remission.  Ms, Dorado requested me to include her already in the ROJoson Cancer Survivor Registry (based on year of operation) so as to inspire other people. She is No. 148th in the Registry.

Breast Cancer Survivor Nena Raya – 10 Years in Remission

Posted on August 9, 2020by reyojoson

Ms. Nena Raya, from Romblon, now 73 years old, underwent modified radical mastectomy done by me on February 2011.  She underwent postoperative chemotherapy and then tamoxifen (up to now).  She consulted on August 1, 2020 via telemedical consultation.  She had cellulitis on one of her legs which resolved with antibiotics.  On her breast cancer, there was no clinical evidence of recurrence as of August 2020.  I am happy for Ms. Raya.  By February 2021 (6 months from now), she will be 10 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remission.  Note: She gave me permission to post her story to inspire others (August 1, 2020).

Breast Cancer Survivor Ebony Domingo – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Ebony Domingo has been under my medical supervision since November, 2012.

History of breast invasive carcinoma, post-modified radical mastectomy in October 24, 2012 in Zamboanga City.  She took Tamoxifen for 5 years.

June 2022 check-up showed NO symptoms and signs indicative of breast cancer recurrence. 

She is now on her 10th year of remission.

We both thank God for this long remission.

Permission to post granted to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Lolit Garcia – 10 Years in Remission

July 13, 2022 – I saw a post of Ms. Lolit Garcia on her Facebook announcing that she was celebrating her 10th of being a cancer survivor.

I congratulated her and said: “May you continue to be in remission. Will pray for you.”

Then, she replied:

Lolit Garcia

Reynaldo O Joson Hi Doc.. you may not remember me but you were my surgeon. You did MRM on me in May 2012 at Manila Doctors Hosp. I thank God for leading me to choose you as.my.surgeon. thank you Doc!! Praying for long life be upon you. God bless po!”

I could not remember her anymore. She refreshed my memory and sent me this picture so that I could post it in my write-up on Cancer Survivor Registry. She gave me permission to make this blog so as to inspire other breast cancer patients.

Ms. Lolit Garcia was 61 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her right breast. The size of the primary tumor was 2.6 cm. There were 9 positive lymph nodes. Postoperatively, she underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She took Tamoxifen for 5 years.

She has not come back to me for physical evaluation. But, when we had a Facebook Messenger chat, she had no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. She was just concerned with her lymphedema on the right upper extremity for which she is undergoing rehab.

Yes, she is now on her 10th year of remission.

We both thank God for this long remission.

https://rojosonmedicalclinic.wordpress.com/2022/08/04/breast-cancer-survivor-lolit-garcia-10-years-in-remission/

Breast Cancer Survivor Lourdes Gapac -11 Years in Remission

Posted on October 12, 2022 by reyojoson

Ms. Lourdes Gapac has been under my medical supervision since October 2011.

History of breast invasive carcinoma, post-modified radical mastectomy in October 8, 2012 by another surgeon.  She was 63 years old then. After operation, she transferred to me for further management and cancer surveillance.

Tumor size – 2.6cm; nodes – negative; positive ERA / PRA.

She did not want chemotherapy. She chose to have hormonal therapy. She took Tamoxifen after the operation for 11 years. I advised stoppage of tamoxifen after she consulted me again face-to-face in October 2022, first consult after the COVID19 lockdown. Last consult before lockdown was in January 2020.

In her October 2022 checkup (she is now 74 years old), she showed NO symptoms and signs indicative of breast cancer recurrence. 

Thus, she is now on her 11th year of remission.

We both thank God for this long remission.

Her daughter posted our picture in her Facebook profile.

Permission to post granted by patient and relatives to inspire other patients.

https://rojosonmedicalclinic.wordpress.com/2022/10/12/breast-cancer-survivor-lourdes-gapac-11-years-in-remission/

Breast Cancer Survivor Ligaya Flores -10 Years in Remission

Posted on November 5, 2022 by reyojoson

Ms. Ligaya Flores was 70 years old in 2012 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her left breast cancer. Size of breast cancer mass was 3 cm. Nodes were negative. ERA / PRA – positive; HER-2-Neu – negative. She took Tamoxifen for 10 years. No chemotherapy. No radiotherapy.

2022 November – at 10 years, she is now 80 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Permission gotten to pose this picture to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Alicia Coronel – 13 Years in Remission

Posted on November 9, 2022 by reyojoson

Ms. Alicia Coronel was 57 years old in 2009 when I did a modified radical mastectomy (September 8, 2009) on her breast cancer. Size of breast cancer mass was 1.1 cm. Nodes were negative. ERA / PRA – positive; HER-2-Neu – negative. She took Tamoxifen for 5 years. No chemotherapy. No radiotherapy.

2022 November – at 13 years, she is now 70 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 13 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Permission given to pose this picture to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Mercedes Canuel -12 Years in Remission

Posted on November 15, 2022 by reyojoson

Ms. Mercedes Canuel was 57 years old in 2010 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her left breast cancer. Size of breast cancer mass was 2 cm. Nodes were negative. ERA positive / PRA negative; HER-2-Neu – positive. She took Tamoxifen for 5 years. No chemotherapy. No trastuzumab for HER-2-NEU positive. No radiotherapy.

2022 November – at 12 years, she is now 70 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 12 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Permission gotten to pose this picture to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Lenita Miranda -11 Years in Remission

Ms. Lenita Miranda was 52 years old in 2011 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer (March 18, 2011). Size of breast cancer mass was 2.6 cm. Nodes were negative. ERA / PRA positive. No HER-2-HEU was done. She took Tamoxifen for 5 years. No chemotherapy. No radiotherapy.

2022 December – she is now 64 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 11 years in remission going 12 years in March 2023. We both thank God for this long remission.

Lenita requested to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Mary Ann Maravilla – 12 Years in Remission

Ms. Mary Ann Maravilla was 42 years old in 2011 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer. Histopathology showed metaplastic carcinoma, a rare type of breast cancer.

May 2023, she is now 54 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 12 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Maravilla consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Shirley Maaba – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Shirley Maaba was 55 years old in 2013 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer. Histopathology showed invasive ductal carcinoma with a tumor size of 2.2 cm and negative nodes. She took Letrozole postop.

I saw her lately in 2023. She is now 65 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Maaba consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Emiliana Ferrer – 14 Years in Remission

Ms. Emiliana Ferrer was 86 years old in 2009 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer. Histopathology showed invasive ductal carcinoma with a tumor size of 2.5 cm and negative nodes. No postoperative additional treatment.

I last saw her in 2014.

I was told in October 24, 2023 by a son that Ms. Ferrer died 4 months after reaching 100 years old, not of breast cancer recurrence, but of a heart condition. She was 14 years in remission at the time of her death.

The family and I thank God for this long remission and without recurrence.

Relatives consented to have her story told and posted in my blogs to inspire other patients.

OLD AGE IS A CONTRAINDICATION FOR OPERATION OF BREAST CANCER,

2023 (updated from 2019) - M. Alvaran

Breast Cancer Survivor M. Alvaran – 12 Years in Remission  in 2019. 

In 2023, at age 65, she is now 16 years in remission.  I saw her in December 5, 2023.

Ms. M. Alvaran underwent modified radical mastectomy in 2007 by another surgeon. She was 49 years old then. Histopath – mucinous carcinoma, 3.5 cm, negative nodes. ERA and PRA positive. She came to me thereafter for opinion whether she needed chemotherapy which was being recommended by a medical oncologist. I presented to her all the different options and pros and cons. She decided not to have chemotherapy, just hormonal therapy.

She is very happy with her decision. She has been under my medical supervision after the her operation. She is now 12 years in remission as of February 14, 2019. We both thank God for this long remission. She asked me to include her in my cancer survivor registry to give inspiration to others.

Photo below taken on December 5, 2023 - at age 65; 16 years in remission.

Breast Cancer Survivor Michell e Gratuito – 13 Years in Remission

Ms. Michelle Gratuito was 33 years old in 2010 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer. Histopathology showed invasive ductal carcinoma with a tumor size of 1.5 cm and 8 positive nodes. ERA / PRA – negative. She was given chemotherapy (CMF) 6 cycles.

I saw her lately in Dec 2023. She is now 46 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 13 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Gratuito consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Resureccion Duenas – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Rcsureccion Duenas was 50 years old in 2014 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer. Histopathology showed invasive ductal carcinoma with a tumor size of 2.1 cm and two positive axillary nodes. ERA / PRA – Positive; HER-2-NEU – Negative. She took 6 cycles of CMF chemotherapy and Tamoxifen for 8 years.

I saw her lately in March 2024. She is now 60 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Rcsureccion Duenas consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Carmen Shok He – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Carmen Shok He was 66 years old in 2014 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer. Histopathology showed mucinous carcinoma with a tumor size of 2 cm and negative axillary nodes. ERA / PRA – Positive; HER-2-NEU – Positive. She took Tamoxifen for 10 years. NO chemotherapy. NO targeted therapy for HER-2-NEU.

I saw her lately in March 2024. She is now 76 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Carmen Shok He consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Febe Caldino – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Febe Caldino was 61 years old in 2014 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer. She opted for prophylactic mastectomy on the contralateral breast. Histopathology showed invasive ductal carcinoma with a tumor size of 4.5 cm and NEGATIVE axillary nodes. ERA / PRA – Positive; HER-2-NEU – equivocal. She took Tamoxifen for 8 years.

I saw her lately in April 2024. She is now 72 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Febe Caldino consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Elena Hisoler – 11 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Elena Hisoler – 11 Years in Remission

Ms. Elena Hisoler was 80 years old in 2013 when I did an excision (carcinoma-in-situ) and then in 2015 modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer (invasive mammary carcinoma) – Stage 1. Nodes were negative. ERA / PRA positive. No HER-2-HEU was done. No hormonal therapy. No chemotherapy. No radiotherapy.

2024 May – she is now 90 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now 11 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Hisoler requested to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

In May 9, 2024

In 2023

Breast Cancer Survivor Mely Ngo – 11 Years in Remission  

Breast Cancer Survivor Mely Ngo – 11 Years in Remission

Ms. Mely Ngo was 54 years old in October 2013 when I did a right modified radical mastectomy (breast cancer 3.5 cm with four axillary nodes). ERA and PRA positive. Equivocal HER initially positive (repeat negative). She underwent postop chemotherapy and then Anastrozole (+allergy) and then tamoxifen for 10 years.

She is now 65 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence. In other words, she is now ]more than 11 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Ngo consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Teresita Azurin – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Teresita Azurin was 61 years old in 2015 when I did a left modified radical mastectomy (breast cancer 3 cm T3 with six positive axillary nodes). ERA and PRA positive. She underwent postop chemotherapy and then Tamoxifen for 5 years.

She is now 71 years old and there is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence as of November 2024. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Azurin consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Jocelyn Espiritu – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Jocelyn Espiritu underwent excision-biopsy of her breast mass in 2014. Histopath showed breast cancer. In 2017, I did a modified radical mastectomy with negative nodes. She received adjuvant hormonal therapy – Tamoxifen – for 10 years.

There is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence as of November 2024. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Espiritu consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

2025

Breast Cancer Survivor Virginia Calixto – 13 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Virginia Calixto – 13 Years in Remission

Ms. Virginia Calixto, now 96 years old as of January 5, 2025, had a telemedical consultation with me today. She is from Bulacan. She told me I did a modified radical mastectomy on her right breast in 2012 at the Philippine General Hospital. She must be 83 years old then. Postoperatively, she completed 5 years of tamoxifen.

When I examined her today through telemedicine, my diagnosis was no clinical evidence for breast cancer recurrence. What she had for the past 2 weeks was pain on the right chest with tenderness on pressure. My diagnosis was nonspecific costochondritis or inflammation of the rib bone and cartilage. I prescribed an anti-inflammatory drugs and asked her to follow-up with me after 2 days.

For her breast cancer, there is no clinical evidence of recurrence as of January 5, 2025. In other words, she is now 13 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Calixto and her daughter consented to have a picture taken and gave permission for me to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast cancer is not a death sentence.

Old age is not a contraindication to have a breast operation done.

With no significant co-morbidities, I am optimistic Ms. Calixto may still live up to 100 years old. She is now 96.

Breast Cancer Survivor Esther Dove – 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Esther Dove underwent modified radical mastectomy in February 2015. She took tamoxifen for 10 years without chemotherapy. She is now 74 years old. There is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence as of March 2025. In other words, she is now 10 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Dove consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Amy Calatrava– 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Amy Calatrava from Butuan, age 45, underwent modified radical mastectomy in April 2015. The primary breast cancer tumor was 6.5 cm with skin ulcerations. I gave 3 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with slight decrease in size. I decided to do a total mastectomy, axillary dissection and rhomboid flap reconstruction of defect. Histopath was infiltrating ductal carcinoma with one node positive and negative margins. ERA and PRA – positive; no HER-2-neu test was done as she refused further chemotherapy and targeted therapy. She did not undergo postoperative chemotherapy or radiotherapy. She took tamoxifen for 8 years until there was a local recurrence. Radiation was given to the local recurrence and it responded. She is now on Letrozole. As of May 2025, she is now 55 years old, she is in remission – 10 years. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Calatrava consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients. In fact, when she reached 10 years by April 2025, she booked a flight from Butuan in May 2025 to see me for her check-up and for her 10-year cancer survivor picture taking.

Breast Cancer Survivor Paciencia Duran– 13 Years in Remission

Ms. Paciencia Duran at age 73 underwent modified radical mastectomy, right, in October 12, 2011. Histopath showed invasive lobular carcinoma, 3 cm, with negative nodes. ERA and PRA – positive; HER-2-Neu – equivocal. She took tamoxifen for 10 years without chemotherapy. She is now 87 years old. There is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence as of May 2025. In other words, she is now 13 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Duran consented to have her picture taken with me and to post it in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast and Colon Cancer Survivor Aster Calogne - 11 and 10 Years in Remission

Ms. Aster Calonge at age 66 underwent modified radical mastectomy in July 2014 (Stage 2). The next year, she had a colectomy for colon cancer.

She is now 77 years old. There is no clinical evidence of breast and colon cancer recurrence as of June 2025. In other words, she is now 11 years in remission for her breast cancer and 10 years for her colon cancer, We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Calogne shares her cancer journey sharing to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Paz Ostonal - 17 Years in Remission

Ms. Paz Ostonal at age 54 underwent modified radical mastectomy, left, in October 2008. Histopath showed papillary carcinoma with negative nodes. She did not take any medications postoperatively. She is now 71 years old. There is no clinical evidence of breast cancer recurrence as of June 2025. In other words, she is now 17 years in remission. We both thank God for this long remission.

Ms. Ostonal consented to have her pictures posted with me and to post them in my blogs to inspire other patients. She designed the pictures herself on June 7, 2025 for me to post.

Breast Cancer Survivor Joan Uy - 10 Years in Remission

Breast Cancer Survivor Marita Pilapil - 13 Years in Remission

Ms. Marita Pilapil was 48 years old when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer.   She had 3 positive lymph nodes. Postoperative adjuvant therapy consisted only of Tamoxifen for 5 years.  She is now 61 years old in 2025 and 13 years in remission.  We both thank God for this long remisison.

Ms. Pilapil consented to have her picture posted in my blogs to inspire other patients.

Breast Cancer Survivor Edith Limbo - 12 Years in Remission

May 2013 - I did a modified radical mastectomy - no postop adjuvant therapy

November 2025 - 12 years now in remission

In-waiting 

2020

Breast Cancer Survivor Elizabeth Ramos - 8 Years in Remission (2020)

Ms. Elizabeth Ramos was 60 years old in 2012 when I did a modified radical mastectomy on her breast cancer.  Her breast mass of 2.5 cm was initially benign on needle aspiration aspiration biopsy in 2009.  With close surveillance, a repeat biopsy showed carcinoma in 2012 for which reason she underwent the mastectomy operation.  At this time, the mass measured about 3 cm. Axillary lymph nodes were negative for spread.  ERA and PRA were positive. HER-2-Neu was positive.  She opted not to have any additional therapy. I saw her in March 5, 2020 at the corridor of a private hospital. She is in remission at age 70, 8 years post mastectomy. We both thank God for this long remission.  Looking forward to 10 years for inclusion in the ROJoson's Cancer Survivor Registry.

ROJ@16feb9;16mar3;mar8;apr7;16sept22;17feb9;17may4;17jun27;17jul6;17jul9;17jul16;17sept30;17oct3;18may2;18jun19;18aug1;18aug5;18oct20;18oct23;18nov26;19feb19;19mar13;19apr14;19apr28;19may16;19oct31;19nov16;20feb10;20feb21;20mar10; 22nov5; 22nov9;22nov15;22dec7;23mar8; 24may12;24nov28; 25jan5;25nov1; 25nov17