Survivor of the Month: Cathy Gautot

Cathy Gautot (pictured at right with Ann Hogan), an employee of Yale New Haven Hospital, took the term early detection to a new level. Gautot has a considerable amount of breast cancer in her family. Her mother, grandmother, and aunt have all been afflicted with the disease. It was because of this that Gautot began annual doctor visits at age 18. This proactive attitude quite possibly saved Gautot’s life.

Her Sister was her Motivator

When Gautot was 29, her 35-year-old sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. This early onset prompted Gautot to take an even more preventative attitude. It was at this time that she began to have a mammogram twice a year.

Many years later, in September 2004 when Gautot was 42, during one of these routine visits, a lump was detected. After the lump was discovered, Gautot acted quickly. She underwent a lumpectomy in October of 2004. A month later, she had to endure yet another lumpectomy because there was still a presence of cancer. Finally, in January of 2005, Cathy opted for a mastectomy, and followed this with a heavy dose of chemotherapy.

“Oh Say Can You See..” A Cure

Gautot is an avid singer, and began her career when she was very young. After she became co-captain of a team for the Komen Race for the Cure®, she shared with Komen Race chair, Ann Hogan, also an employee of Yale New Haven Hospital, her affinity for singing. It was then that a thought struck Ann. “After speaking with Cathy, and learning about her talent, I instantly thought of how wonderful it would be to have her sing the national anthem in Bushnell Park on Race Day.” Ann added, “To see a breast cancer survivor on stage singing was a wonderful experience. It was a symbol of what Cathy and the many other breast cancer survivors of Connecticut have overcome.”

Each Day is a Gift

When asked how she felt on Race Day, Gautot replied, “Blessed.”  She added, “A lot of people have gone through more than I did. I was really fortunate.”  Gautot says that her future goal is to, “enjoy life more than she used to.” She now, “understands that each day is a precious gift.”

This story was written by Lauren Parise, a student at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT and an intern with Susan G. Komen for the Cure Connecticut Affiliate. Lauren lost her mother to breast cancer in 2006. To be involved in other Susan G. Komen for the Cure Connecticut Affiliate projects, visit our website or call (860) 728-4955.