Shirley Colagrossi - "Strong-Willed and Resilient"

Shirley Colagrossi, Chapel Hill, NC

In 2003, Shirley Colagrossi, who had recently moved to Chapel Hill, had a mammogram. She had her medical records transferred so that her new mammogram could be compared to previous ones. The radiologist detected changes, and asked her to return for more tests. She then learned that, at 68, she had breast cancer.

Following a mastectomy, she discussed follow-up care with her surgeon who suggested that she consider participating in a trial that tested the new drug Herceptin. Colagrossi researched where trials were being offered and chose UNC because there was an immediate opening in a Herceptin trial.

Colagrossi explained that she and her son and daughter met with Dr. Lisa Carey and asked many questions about the trial.“I wanted to be sure this was something I wanted to and could do. Dr. Carey took all the time I needed to answer my questions and to make sure I understood every aspect of the trial. I was reassured that the trial was my best option.”

She began the trial in March 2003 and finished the regimen 22 months later.

Following the clinical trial, she underwent radiation therapy, and today the busy 74-year-old tutors at-risk youth and other children, enjoys spending time with her daughter and her family who live in Chapel Hill, makes quilts, and teaches and participates in writing groups. 

“I chose to take part in the clinical trial and am so glad I did. In a clinical trial each participant is followed very closely as part of the protocol, so I receive outstanding care. I have had some side effects from treatment, but they are manageable. My care at UNC is excellent. From the staff to the nurses to the physicians, everyone is ready to help you succeed.”

Colagrossi concludes, “As someone who was diagnosed with cancer later in life, I think it’s important that older women are included in clinical trials and are given an opportunity to participate. We can be remarkably strong-willed and resilient.”