State Representative Bridget Kosierowski, dressed in a striking pink ensemble, navigated her district office with poise and humor, just weeks after undergoing surgery for ductal carcinoma in situ, a type of breast cancer. Despite the recent procedure, her demeanor remains upbeat, reflecting her optimism about her prognosis.
Kosierowski’s Cancer Journey
On May 20, Kosierowski was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer known as ductal carcinoma in situ, often referred to as stage 0 breast cancer according to the Mayo Clinic. “It’s a very common diagnosis, and it’s one that we know how to treat,” she said. Kosierowski’s experience underscores the importance of early detection, as this condition can become invasive if undetected.
The state representative announced her diagnosis on June 23, coinciding with her surgery. “When I released my video on Facebook to make my announcement, by the time that aired, I was already in the operating room,” she explained.
The incidence rate of this type of breast cancer in Pennsylvania is 31.6 per 100,000, according to the National Cancer Institute. Kosierowski emphasizes the importance of screenings, noting that “there were hundreds of women that emailed me, texted me, Facebook messaged me, saying, ‘Hey, thank you. I never had a mammogram, and now that I listened to your story, I’m going to go get one.'”
‘I feel really good. I would not push myself if I did not feel good or I had any complications.’
— State Rep. Bridget Kosierowski on returning to work amid cancer treatment
An Advocate for Early Detection and Research
With a favorable prognosis, Kosierowski is keen to raise awareness about the significance of early cancer detection. The National Breast Cancer Foundation reports that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, but the survival rate for early-stage localized breast cancer is 99%.
Kosierowski’s own diagnosis was due to a routine mammogram, which she credits for altering her health trajectory positively. “It could change people’s lives because that screening that I went and got, it did change the trajectory of my outcome,” she stated.
Her commitment to health advocacy extends to promoting clinical trials, which have been pivotal in the evolution of cancer treatments. Kosierowski’s son, who was diagnosed with leukemia at age four and is now in remission, participated in such trials, highlighting their importance in medical advancements.
Championing Accessible Health Care
Kosierowski remains a staunch advocate for accessible health care, drawing from personal experiences and professional insights. She co-sponsored a bill this session to ensure insurance covers preventive services like screenings and vaccines and plans to continue her advocacy for equitable health care access in the legislature.
“What I have been laser focused on for the last six years of my life in my job is access to care, affordability and information,” Kosierowski remarked, determined to ensure equal health care opportunities for all.
