Greenville Reporter

Tracy Colville, a crew leader at Greenville Utilities Commission (GUC), discovered a one-inch knot on his chest last summer. Initially dismissing it as temporary, he sought medical attention from Dr. Daniel Terryberry at the GUC Clinic operated by ECU Health when the lump persisted.

Dr. Terryberry suspected cancer and referred Tracy to Eastern Radiology for further tests. A mammogram and ultrasound indicated a potentially malignant form of breast cancer, necessitating a biopsy for confirmation.

“I couldn’t get an appointment for three weeks,” Tracy recalled. Dr. Terryberry intervened to expedite the process. “The next day I had an appointment for a biopsy.”

Tracy was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, the most common form of breast cancer in males, affecting about 2,800 men annually in the United States according to the Mayo Clinic. The American Cancer Society notes that approximately 19 percent of these cases result in death.

Following his diagnosis, Tracy underwent genetic testing which revealed he was not a carrier of the breast cancer gene—a relief since male breast cancer is rare and had not been on his radar.

“He really helped me out,” Tracy said regarding Dr. Terryberry's assistance. “You might want to go over there. They have ways to get you the health services you need sooner.”

Within a month of diagnosis, Tracy had surgery to remove the mass and is currently undergoing physical therapy for post-surgery recovery.

“I can’t really complain about that. At least I am living,” he expressed.

ECU Health Cancer Care continues to provide resources for those affected by cancer.