Finding Confidence After Breast Cancer: Kari’s Reconstruction Journey

When Kari McClain looks in the mirror, she still sees reminders of what she’s been through. But today, at 50, the Decatur native is cancer-free, feeling good and enjoying life with her husband, three grown sons and nearly 2-year-old granddaughter.

Her breast cancer journey began at age 42, when she felt a lump during a self-exam.

Kari hoped it was nothing. She had been healthy and had started getting yearly mammograms at 40. But after initially putting off getting the lump checked, she eventually sought care and received a breast cancer diagnosis.

“I was in denial,” Kari said of those first days after the news.

As she moved through appointments, treatment and eventually a mastectomy, her care team at Decatur Memorial Hospital (DMH) helped guide her through next steps. That included breast reconstruction with plastic surgeon Jordan Youngerman, MD at DMH.

“Any questions I had, he was there,” Kari said. “The team was amazing, leading me in the right direction and walking me through everything.”

Kari’s reconstruction began with tissue expanders placed after her mastectomy, followed by implants and nipple reconstruction. Radiation later caused changes that left her uncomfortable, so she continued working with Dr. Youngerman to address those effects. Most recently, she underwent an implant exchange.

“I feel amazing,” she said. “From day one, he’s been great.”

For Kari, reconstruction was an important part of moving forward after breast cancer. Her experience also reflects the support available at DMH for women whose needs continue after surgery, including plastic and reconstructive care.

“Every patient has different needs, and we want them to understand their options and choose an approach that feels right for them,” said Dr. Youngerman. “Our goal is to be a trusted resource for women throughout their journey, whether they are considering reconstruction for the first time or need additional care years later.”

The road has not always been easy. Kari was diagnosed with breast cancer again at 45 and has now been in remission for four years. She credits her family and friends with keeping her positive through all of it.

Today, Kari and her husband are empty nesters who enjoy traveling and weekend getaways. She’s a patient coordinator at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy and also works part time as a fitness instructor at the YMCA.

“I’m not going to say that every day is not a challenge, because I see the evidence of what I’ve been through every day in the mirror,” she said. “But I feel good, and I’m cancer-free.”

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Kari hopes her experience encourages other women to put prioritize health through regular check-ups and screenings.

“Early detection. Don’t put it off,” she said. “If something is positive, get it done. Get it going before it’s too late.”