Jennifer Litton, M.D., a renowned breast medical oncologist and chief clinical research officer at MD Anderson Cancer Center, has spent her career leading clinical trials that shape the standard of care for breast cancer. In the fall of 2025, she faced a new, deeply personal role: that of a breast cancer patient.
During a routine mammogram in September, Litton discovered a 3-centimeter calcification in her upper left breast, close to her underarm. Subsequent testing confirmed high-grade ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), the earliest form of breast cancer, sometimes called stage 0.
“I feel like a bit of an imposter,” Litton said. “I was fortunate my breast cancer was caught so early, and I knew it could be treated successfully. But undergoing surgery and radiation, and soon endocrine therapy, has given me a better appreciation for what our patients go through.”
Choosing Treatment: Lumpectomy Over Mastectomy
Initially considering a double mastectomy to prevent recurrence, Litton ultimately opted for a lumpectomy after consulting with her surgeon, Kelly Hunt, M.D., chair of Breast Surgical Oncology. The outpatient procedure, performed in November, included an oncoplastic closure and tissue rearrangement by plastic surgeon Carrie Chu, M.D., leaving a small, discreet incision under her arm.
“The incision is hardly noticeable,” Litton said. “I underestimated how fatigued I’d feel from anesthesia, but gradually I started to recover.”
Radiation Therapy and Patient Advocacy
Following surgery, Litton began partial breast radiation with radiation oncologist Melissa Mitchell, M.D., Ph.D. She prepared by speaking with patient advocates, who welcomed her into what they called “our sisterhood.”
Radiation planning and treatment required stillness to protect nearby structures like the heart, but Litton appreciated the team’s efforts to keep her comfortable—including letting her choose music, alternating between Taylor Swift and The Beatles. Despite minor fatigue and post-surgery soreness, she continued her clinic and administrative work throughout treatment.
The Emotional Milestone: Ringing the Bell
After completing radiation, Litton shared her journey with a wider circle. Surrounded by colleagues, patient advocates, her children, and her husband, Todd, she rang the bell that symbolizes the end of treatment.
“I thought of all the patient advocates and my own patients who had rung this bell,” she said. “The outpouring of love was just amazing.”
Gratitude for Research and Colleagues
Litton will now take tamoxifen daily for five years to reduce the risk of recurrence. She credits her experience to early detection, comprehensive care, and decades of cancer research.
“I’m the true beneficiary of early detection and clinical research,” she said. “It also made me re-appreciate this very special place we’re in. I feel like I got the best care in the entire world.”
