Roisin Bettencourt shares her breast cancer journey and unexpected joy

September 28, 2023

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION, Kendal J. Bush, Photographer,

Roisin Bettencourt is living her best life with courage and resilience.

In 2016, Roisin Bettencourt’s life took an unwelcome turn when a lump in her breast led her down a path she never imagined.

Her journey started with an ultrasound at Foundation Radiology followed immediately by a mammogram at deNicola Breast Health Center at Southern New Hampshire Health. Afterward, the team wasted no time bringing her directly to Foundation Surgery to discuss biopsy and the road ahead.

Roisin navigated her cancer diagnosis with the team at Foundation Hematology/Oncology. Under the care of Dr. Guatami Rao, Roisin made her priorities known. She wanted a career, a normal life, and the opportunity to visit the one department of the hospital she hadn’t visited yet – The Birth Place. Little did she know that she would soon welcome a son into the world.

However, 15 months into motherhood, back pain led Roisin back to the hospital. Doctors discovered cancer in her spine and liver. This time, Dr. Rao collaborated with Dr. Isakoff of Massachusetts General Hospital, and by December, the cancer in Roisin’s spine had been radiated. Roisin began targeted therapy, and she continues to show stable scans today.

“Every member of the team took great care of me and my family during a scary time. I want other people to know they are in good hands,” says Roisin. The Southern New Hampshire Health team works to bring world-class care and peace of mind to Roisin and you every day.