Episode 409: Trust What You Feel: Part 2

Welcome to Part 2 of our episode with Isabel O’Gara! To listen to Part 1, check out our episode from October 26, 2026.

Isabel O'Gara was pregnant when she was diagnosed with a later-stage, pregnancy-associated breast cancer — a diagnosis she almost didn't get the chance to catch early in a system where women's symptoms are so often waved away. Isabel's experience was different: Her care team at Yale New Haven took her seriously and responded quickly, a contrast she's determined to talk about openly.

Isabel had breastfed her daughter for 20 months and hoped to do the same with her son. Treatment changed that plan, and she's been honest about the breakdown that came with grieving an experience she expected to have. That loss is part of what's pushed her into advocacy — including supporting what's known as Connie's Bill, legislation aimed at covering formula and donor milk for parents who medically cannot breastfeed because of cancer or other serious illness. As she finishes chemotherapy and prepares for a mastectomy, Isabel joins Real Pink to talk about listening to your body during pregnancy and postpartum, pushing back when something feels wrong and why she's using her voice — including as a participant in Komen's Don't Fail the Girls campaign this NBCAM.

This episode is part of our Health Equity Revolution series, which lifts up the voices, stories and solutions of the communities most impacted by breast cancer disparities.

Make sure to follow Isabel and her journey on Instagram @isabel.ogara and TikTok @Isabelogara

Takeaways

• Pregnancy and postpartum symptoms can mask breast cancer warning signs
• Breast exams during prenatal and postpartum care could help identify concerning changes earlier
• A strong support system is essential during cancer treatment
• Trust your body and advocate for yourself

Chapters
01:29 — Why Breast Cancer Symptoms Get Missed During Pregnancy and Postpartum
06:29 — Raising Young Children During Cancer Treatment
12:15 — Preparing for a Double Mastectomy
16:08 — Isabel’s Role in the Don’t Fail the Girls Campaign
20:36 — Isabel’s Message to Mothers and Young Women

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.