Hannah Storm’s Journey with Breast Cancer: A Story of Strength and Advocacy
A Shocking Diagnosis: When Cancer Interrupts Life
Hannah Storm, a trailblazer in sports journalism, has always been known for her poise and clarity on camera. However, in January 2024, she found herself at a loss for words when she received a breast cancer diagnosis. At 62, Storm was diagnosed with non-invasive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a form of breast cancer where cancerous cells line the milk ducts of the breast. Despite having no symptoms or family history of breast cancer, Storm had always been vigilant about her health, undergoing over 20 mammograms and ultrasounds over the years. This time, however, her doctors detected something unusual.
The diagnosis came as a shock to Storm, who had always prioritized her health. "It really came as a shock," she shared with Yahoo Life. "It was something out of the blue." Her journey with cancer began with a biopsy and an official diagnosis early in 2024. Storm, who has built a career on resilience and determination, quickly turned to her support system, including her friend and tennis legend Chris Evert, who had previously battled ovarian cancer. Evert connected Storm with her doctor, Dr. Elisa Port, who reassured her with simple yet powerful words: "You’re not going to die from this."
The Power of Preventative Screenings: A Lesson in Vigilance
Storm credits her commitment to annual screenings for saving her life. "Had I not been really good about my yearly screening, I never would have known it was there," she said. Her diagnosis underscored the importance of regular health checkups, especially for women who, like Storm, may not have a family history of cancer. Despite her diligence, Storm admitted she was unaware of genetic testing until her physician brought it up. This lack of awareness is not uncommon; a 2022 survey by Myriad Genetics found that many women are uncertain about their family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
Storm was astonished by the simplicity and depth of genetic testing, describing it as a "simple blood test" that provided extensive information about her health risks. This experience inspired her to partner with Myriad Genetics’ MyRisk with RiskScore hereditary cancer test, which evaluates 48 genes to assess the risk of developing 11 types of hereditary cancer. Storm now advocates for genetic testing, viewing it as a tool for empowerment rather than a source of fear. "I think people are like, ‘Well, I don’t want to know. It’s super scary,’" she said. "I look at it as, well, it’s super empowering."
Knowing Your Risks: The Key to Proactive Health
Storm’s advocacy extends beyond her own experience. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s risk factors for hereditary cancers and taking proactive steps to manage them. While some may hesitate to learn about their genetic predispositions, Storm believes knowledge is power. "That gives you a game plan for you and your healthcare provider," she explained. "You have the science there; you know what your risk level is."
Storm is passing on this lesson to her three daughters, who will undergo the Myriad test. She hopes her story will inspire others to take control of their health, especially younger individuals who may need to start screenings earlier. Her message is clear: vigilance and awareness can be life-saving.
The Urgency of Self-Care: Prioritizing Health in a Busy World
Storm’s cancer journey has also highlighted the importance of treating health appointments with the same urgency as professional commitments. She observed that many people, especially women, tend to prioritize others’ needs over their own. "Moms are working, taking care of kids or taking care of their parents," she said. "We tend to take care of everybody else but put ourselves last."
To address this, Storm encourages women to make their health a priority and seeks the support of their loved ones. She often reminds the male athletes she works with to encourage their wives and girlfriends to keep up with their health appointments. "Whatever you have to do, just help her out," she advises. "Nobody is an island."
In addition to regular screenings, Storm emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle. She maintains a daily weight-lifting routine, which she credits with supporting her bone health, and enjoys activities like cycling and walking. Her cancer diagnosis also made her more mindful of her diet, avoiding processed foods and focusing on nutrient-rich meals. While she has always been health-conscious, her experience has deepened her commitment to self-care.
Advocating for Yourself: A Lifelong Journey
Storm’s journey with cancer has been marked by resilience and self-advocacy, qualities she has honed throughout her career in sports journalism. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she faced numerous challenges early in her career, including mistreatment and skepticism. Yet, she refused to let these obstacles define her. "I took a lot of abuse," she reflected. "I definitely did the best I could at the time, but the one thing that I did not let it do was defeat me."
This determination has carried her through her cancer journey, as she navigates treatments, recovery, and her new role as an advocate for early detection and genetic testing. Storm’s story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of speaking up for oneself. She continues to inspire others, both in her personal and professional life, proving that challenges—whether in journalism or in health—can be overcome with courage and determination.
A Legacy of Strength and Purpose
Today, Storm is focused on sharing the lessons she has learned from her cancer journey. She hopes to empower others to take charge of their health and to embrace genetic testing as a tool for proactive care. Her partnership with Myriad Genetics is just one example of her commitment to raising awareness about hereditary cancers and the importance of early detection.
In the midst of her advocacy work, Storm is also finding joy in the things she loves, including hosting her annual Super Bowl party. While she won’t be attending the game in person, she’s looking forward to cheering on her favorite team from home. "I would like to see history," she said with a smile. "So, I think it would be cool to see Kansas City three-peat!"
Hannah Storm’s story is one of strength, resilience, and purpose. Her journey with cancer has not only transformed her life but has also given her a platform to inspire others. As she continues to advocate for health awareness and self-care, she remains a beacon of hope and determination for women everywhere.
