“I was the picture of health,” Davidson said. “Never would I have imagined that’s what it was.”
Her cancer journey began immediately, and so did the support from Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at The Woodlands.
Just a day after Christmas 2023, Davidson, a police officer, wife and mother of five, received the life-altering diagnosis while sitting in dispatch at work. That lump was Stage 1 breast cancer called invasive ductal carcinoma, and it tested positive for three important markers.
At Houston Methodist The Woodlands Cancer Center, patients are paired with dedicated oncology nurse navigators who walk alongside them from diagnosis through recovery. These licensed registered nurses work closely with physicians and specialists to coordinate personalized treatment plans, provide emotional support and ensure each patient understands their diagnosis and care options.
As soon as Davidson hung up the phone, she received emails and texts from her assigned oncology nurse navigator, Regina Batza, BSN, RN, OCN, helping her take the first steps.
That sense of hope is at the heart of Houston Methodist’s The Woodlands Cancer Center’s approach. A multidisciplinary team of specialists work together to treat a wide range of cancers, offering personalized, comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of each patient. Services include advanced imaging, genetic counseling, clinical trials and survivorship resources all close to home in The Woodlands.
Dr. Loren Rourke, MD, MHCM, FACS, a specialist in breast surgical oncology, was the first physician Davidson met with for a formal diagnosis, and the first to give her real hope.
“She walked in like a ray of sunshine,” Davidson said. “She told me I was going to be okay, and the river just flowed. It was my first time crying. I had been too scared to cry because I felt like if I did, I’d lose myself, and I wouldn’t be able to get back.”
Together, Davidson and her team decided her best course of treatment was to undergo a double mastectomy. After surgery, she began six rounds of TCHP chemotherapy and 20 rounds of radiation.
“It wasn’t fun, but I saw every treatment as a step toward life. And I have so much to live for,” Davidson said.
In the months that followed, Davidson experienced firsthand the depth of care that defines Houston Methodist. From chemotherapy to radiation to follow-up surgeries, each phase of her treatment was guided by experts who understood the complexities of her case and the importance of treating the whole person.
Throughout her care, Davidson felt deeply supported by her medical team, including plastic surgeon Dr. Steven Albright, MD, radiation oncologist Dr. Timothy Wagner, MD, MBA and the nursing staff who reassured her before surgery.
“They saved my life,” she said. “And not just physically. They helped me emotionally, mentally, spiritually get through one of the hardest journeys of my life.”
Now in remission, Mrs. Davidson is back in uniform, back in the gym and back to inspiring others. She continues to be monitored by her oncology team and takes medication with minimal side effects.
“I’m better now. Cancer didn’t change me. It made me better,” Davidson said. “My mission is to be a light for women with breast cancer.”
Houston Methodist The Woodlands Cancer Center delivers more than treatment; it delivers a continuum of care designed to support every aspect of the cancer journey, from prevention and diagnosis to healing and thriving.
As Davidson put it, “What I thought would be the worst year of my life turned out to be the best with Houston Methodist.”
Take charge of your health
Early detection can make a big difference, so regular screenings and doctor visits are important to catch issues early. It’s also crucial to advocate for your health by asking questions and seeking second opinions if needed. Taking preventive steps like eating well, staying active and managing stress can lower the risk of many illnesses, including cancer. Making your health a priority helps protect your well-being for the future.
To find a doctor or learn more about cancer services at Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at The Woodlands, visit the center’s website or call 936-270-3333.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
