Alison McCullough’s Journey Through Breast Cancer Treatment

Alison McCullough, a model preparing for New York Fashion Week in September 2025, discovered a lump under her arm during a routine shave. As a 39-year-old, she faced challenges accessing early diagnosis since the American Cancer Society recommends regular mammograms starting at age 40. Her primary care provider’s referral process involved long waits, especially in Alaska, where options were limited.

McCullough expressed frustrations over the delays, explaining, “It’s quite a long process when you feel like time is of the essence.” She managed some distraction through her fashion commitments, yet her fears grew. Nearly two months later, doctors diagnosed her with triple-negative breast cancer, a particularly aggressive form.

Dr. Erica Mayer from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute explains that triple-negative breast cancer, comprising 10% to 15% of all cases, presents treatment challenges. These tumors lack estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, making them resistant to most targeted therapies. Patients often need chemotherapy, surgery, or newer treatments like immunotherapy.

Confronted with limited treatment options and lengthy wait times at her designated infusion center, McCullough and her husband sought alternatives. They reached out to City of Hope, a cancer treatment facility, and promptly received a positive response. The organization integrated her treatment schedule efficiently, offering a multi-disciplinary team that provided cohesive care.

McCullough embarked on a six-month chemotherapy regimen. While the initial months had mild side effects, the latter half proved more challenging. Despite these hurdles, she persevered, bolstered by her physical preparation for Fashion Week.

Completing chemotherapy in March marked a significant victory for McCullough. Subsequent procedures, including a double mastectomy in April, aimed to prevent recurrence. In May, her oncologist delivered welcome news—McCullough was cancer-free.

With reconstruction surgeries underway, she rejoined her family in Alaska, celebrating a momentous milestone—her son’s 12th birthday. As she prioritizes time with loved ones, McCullough also plans to resume workouts and return to the fashion scene, eager to share her story and inspire hope for others.