Renowned breast cancer surgeon and patient advocate, Susan M. Love, passed away on July 2 at her home in Los Angeles. She was 75 years old and had been battling recurrent leukemia since 2012. An influential figure in the field of breast cancer research and treatment, Dr. Love co-founded the National Breast Cancer Coalition, a grassroots organization dedicated to increasing federal funding for breast cancer research. As a female surgeon in the 1980s, Dr. Love faced sexism in her career and decided to specialize in breast surgery. She believed that she could make a bigger difference in the field of breast cancer than in general surgery.
Throughout her career, Dr. Love challenged conventional practices in breast cancer treatment and advocated for less invasive procedures to preserve breast tissue. She wrote “Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book,” which became a comprehensive resource on breast cancer treatment and prevention and is often referred to as the “bible” of people with breast cancer. Her book has been translated into multiple languages and an updated seventh edition is set to be released in the fall.
Dr. Love’s vision of eradicating breast cancer led her to co-found the National Breast Cancer Coalition in 1991. The coalition has been successful in generating over $4 billion for breast cancer research, leading to significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Love’s advocacy efforts extended beyond her professional life, as she fought for the legal recognition of joint adoption by same-sex couples. Her landmark legal battle in Massachusetts paved the way for same-sex couples to adopt and co-parent.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Susan Margaret Love was the oldest of five children. She initially entered a Catholic religious order before pursuing a career in medicine. She graduated with an M.D. from the State University of New York and completed her surgical training at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. She went on to direct breast clinics in Boston and Los Angeles and taught at Harvard Medical School and UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine.
In addition to her work in breast cancer advocacy, Dr. Love was a prolific author and a member of the National Cancer Advisory Council. She wrote books on topics such as menopause and hormone replacement therapy. She also led the Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, which focused on accelerating research through initiatives like the Love Research Army and the development of a portable ultrasound device.
Dr. Susan M. Love’s impact on breast cancer research and treatment is immeasurable. She leaves behind a legacy of advocacy and a commitment to fighting breast cancer. Her dedication to empowering women and advancing the understanding of breast cancer will continue to inspire future generations in the fight against the disease.