Traci Zerbst was busy in the kitchen, preparing for Thanksgiving and eagerly awaiting the arrival of family. Nearby, her husband, Paul, a devoted pastor, was fine-tuning his next sermon. Life felt full and blessed.
Then came the news that changed everything.
Just days after a routine mammogram raised concerns, a follow-up biopsy confirmed that Traci had breast cancer. For Traci, a music therapist from Hanahan, the diagnosis came as a shock — especially after having faced and overcome Hodgkin’s lymphoma earlier in life. The news served as an unexpected reminder that past health challenges can resurface when least expected.
Traci turned to her trusted physician, Dr. Laura Lee Kinney, who quickly referred her to Dr. Philip Albaneze, a breast surgeon with Roper St. Francis Healthcare. From the moment she met him, Traci felt reassured.
“He didn’t rush, and he answered every question,” she says. “I didn’t feel like just another patient. I felt seen and heard.”
At that first appointment — while still processing her diagnosis — Traci received a comprehensive breast cancer guidebook from Dr. Albaneze’s team. Inside was information designed to help patients navigate their care, including resources available to support them along the way. As Paul transitioned from the corporate world into full-time ministry, knowing that support systems were in place brought tremendous peace of mind.
“It felt like such a blessing,” Traci says. “Before we even knew everything this journey would involve, we knew we wouldn’t be walking through it alone.”
Hard Choices, Guided by Faith and Trusted Medical Care
An MRI soon revealed additional cancerous spots, confirming a diagnosis of stage two breast cancer. Further review of Traci’s medical history revealed that the radiation treatments she had received years earlier for Hodgkin’s lymphoma likely contributed to the development of this cancer.
After much prayer and thoughtful discussion, Traci and Paul made a bold and proactive decision: a double mastectomy. Dr. Albaneze carefully explained her options and offered guidance but never pressured.
“I never felt rushed or pushed,” Traci says. “He empowered us to make the decision that felt right for us.”
Because the cancer had not reached her lymph nodes, Traci was able to avoid chemotherapy and radiation — a tremendous relief. For reconstruction, Dr. Albaneze recommended Dr. Federico Perez, a plastic surgeon with Roper St. Francis Healthcare. Once again, Traci felt she was in capable and compassionate hands.
Her initial surgery took place on January 8, with both physicians present and working together as a team. While healing came with its challenges, Traci approached recovery with patience, faith, and trust in her care team. By April 2, she underwent a successful reconstructive surgery.
Grace Notes Along the Way
Throughout her recovery, Traci found strength in the small moments — the grace notes that sustained this music therapist. From the steady presence of her husband to the unwavering support of their daughters, Amy and Ashley, and the prayers of their church family, love surrounded her at every step.
And then there were the caregivers — attentive, respectful, and deeply compassionate. Dr. Perez’s team made a lasting impression with their kindness and expertise, reinforcing Traci’s sense that she was truly cared for.
Today, Traci’s prognosis is positive, with no signs of cancer spread. With the help of ongoing preventive therapy, she remains focused on healing and moving forward with confidence.
Giving Back with Gratitude
Grateful for the care, guidance, and support she received, Traci and Paul felt called to give back — to help ensure others facing a cancer diagnosis experience the same compassion and dignity. Not long after her own diagnosis, another woman in their church received similar news. Traci stepped into the role of encourager, offering understanding, prayer, and hope.
This journey has only strengthened Traci’s belief in faith, community, and resilience.
“You have a choice,” she says. “You can get bitter or better. I chose better. I chose to surround myself with people who lift me up.”
Her advice to others facing a diagnosis is heartfelt and simple:
“Don’t walk through it alone. Let people in. Let them pray for you and carry some of the weight. We are made for community.”
Because of generous donor support, patients like Traci receive not only excellent medical care, but the guidance, compassion, and resources needed to focus fully on healing. Your philanthropy helps ensure no one faces cancer alone.