"Real Housewives of Dallas" alumna D'andra Simmons bravely embarked on a journey through three critical procedures to battle breast cancer at the medical center founded by her esteemed uncle. In a heartfelt July 29 Instagram post, she declared, "After today, I will add 'breast cancer survivor' to my extensive tapestry of life experiences."
At 56, Simmons shared her personal struggle, revealing, "I never imagined I would be a patient at the UTSW Simmons Cancer Center, a facility established nearly three decades ago by my uncle Harold Simmons and his Foundation. Yet, here I am, facing breast cancer."
While she refrained from detailing the specific stage of her cancer, Simmons opened up about her tumor and detailed her arduous morning of procedures in her Instagram stories. First up was seed localization, where a tiny radioactive seed was meticulously placed directly onto the tumor. "This ensures that when the surgeon operates, they know precisely where to excise the tumor," Simmons elaborated. The second step involved identifying the lymph nodes targeted for removal during surgery.
"The surgery awaits next," she continued. "I warned you; it's shaping up to be a long day."
Simmons wasn't alone in this fight; her mother, Dee Simmons, was by her side, captured on camera as they waited anxiously in the hospital. Her husband, Jeremy Lock, who had driven her to the hospital, lightened the mood with a playful remark about being ready to "get that sh*t out of there," prompting a playful rebuke from Simmons, "What did you say? You used a naughty word."
On a more poignant note, Simmons expressed her profound gratitude for her exceptional care team. "I'm the third woman on my mother's side of the family to be diagnosed with breast cancer—at least, that we're aware of. Today marks a new chapter; I add 'breast cancer survivor' to my list of life experiences."
She concluded with a message of hope: "I eagerly anticipate sharing my story to inspire others in the future. Thank you to everyone who has sent prayers and support to my family and me. We cherish your encouragement and love having you by our side."
