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Life Tips 25/06/2025 16:22

Woman who beat breast canc3r at 101 reveals her simple secrets to longevity, highlighting one food she always avoids

Layne Horwich lives independently, found the lump herself and surprised doctors with her treatment choice. What older women should know about breast cancer risk.
At the age of 101, Layne Horwich enjoys an active, independent lifestyle. She lives in her own apartment, manages her grocery shopping, pays her bills, and takes time for a weekly salon visit to have her hair styled and nails manicured. Her doctors describe her as “amazing” and “unique,” noting that her health is extraordinary for someone of her age.
However, her health journey took an unexpected turn last year when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at 100 years old. She discovered a small lump while getting dressed and immediately informed a family member the following day.
“If there's a lump, you should definitely have it checked out,” Horwich, who lives independently in Highland Park, Illinois, tells TODAY.com.
Her granddaughter took her straight to the gynecologist’s office, where a mammogram confirmed that she had Stage 1 breast cancer. This marked her first diagnosis with the disease, but it was discovered early and was non-aggressive.
“I understand that a breast cancer diagnosis is devastating for younger women,” Horwich says. “But at my age, I knew that it wasn’t likely to grow rapidly, and I was so grateful that I hadn’t suffered from a stroke or heart attack, which could have left me incapacitated. So, I looked at the situation differently than a younger person might.”
Contrary to what many women believe, the risk of developing breast cancer actually increases with age, explains Dr. Catherine Pesce, a breast surgical oncologist at Endeavor Health.
Horwich was the oldest patient Pesce had ever treated.
“I knew she would do well because she’s such a strong woman,” says Dr. Pesce. “Seeing someone who’s 100 going through this might offer hope to others too.”
Mammograms for Older Women
Horwich had regularly undergone mammograms in the past, but she had stopped when her gynecologist retired. The American Cancer Society recommends that older women continue to get mammograms every two years, provided they are in good health and expect to live at least another decade.
Dr. Pesce advises that women should have yearly mammograms if they believe they will live for another five years.
“It’s something most people don’t realize until they see it in practice – cancer can develop even in women in their 80s and 90s,” Dr. Pesce explains.
However, doctors must be cautious about overtreating breast cancers in older women that might not affect their quality of life, as some studies suggest.
Treatment Decisions
Horwich had several treatment options presented to her. One was to do nothing and simply monitor the cancer, but she rejected that choice.
“I just wanted it removed. I didn’t want to leave it there,” Horwich explains.
Her second option was hormone therapy, which could slow the cancer's growth even more. But Horwich was adamant about not taking medication that could cause hair loss, as her hair was an important part of her identity.
“I’m just lucky I still have a good head of hair. I don't want to lose it,” she says.
Ultimately, she opted for a lumpectomy, which involves removing the cancer and surrounding tissue. Her doctors, confident in her good health, determined she was capable of tolerating the surgery, which was successfully performed in August 2024.
“She’s incredible,” Dr. Pesce says. “I treated her as though she was a 60-year-old.”
Horwich’s recovery was swift, and she did not need chemotherapy or radiation.
“I’m cancer-free now,” she says. “I just keep living my life.”
Tips for Longevity
Horwich attributes her remarkable longevity to a combination of luck and staying physically active.
She doesn’t believe genetics played a major role in her long life. Her mother passed away at 72, and her father at 80, which, in her younger years, she thought was quite a long life. Now, as a 101-year-old, she refers to people in their 80s as “children.”
Here are some of her top tips for living a long life:
Stay Active
Horwich played tennis until she was 92 and has always kept herself active. Even at 101, she walks energetically and doesn’t need any assistance, like a walker.
“It’s crucial to exercise and keep moving – not necessarily strenuous exercise, but just the act of staying active,” she advises.
Challenge Your Mind
Horwich plays cards and mahjong several times a week with friends to keep her mind sharp. These games provide both mental stimulation and a sense of social connection, which helps prevent loneliness and enhances cognitive function.
Maintain Social Connections
“I’ve always been social, always had friends, and went out to dinner and lunch,” Horwich says. “Staying busy and surrounded by friends is important.”
Researchers agree that strong social relationships are vital for happiness and well-being, particularly in older age.
Enjoy What You Eat
Horwich enjoys a wide variety of foods but avoids junk food. While she doesn't credit her eating habits for her longevity, she does indulge in treats, particularly milk chocolate and desserts, though in moderation.
“I can't rave about my diet because I don’t love vegetables,” she confesses. “But I do enjoy salads and red peppers.”
Find Balance
Horwich’s daughter, Nancy Rothstein, describes her mother as someone who moves slowly and thoughtfully, never rushing or multitasking.
“She moves gracefully and is very steady,” Rothstein says. “She doesn’t rush around like the rest of us. She’s calm and focused on what she’s doing.”
Take Care of Your Body
Horwich has never smoked and drank alcohol only occasionally. She has now stopped drinking alcohol altogether to reduce the risk of falling.
"I always took care of myself,” she says. “And I encourage others to do the same. It’s important."
At 101, Horwich continues to live independently, pursuing a full and active life, staying engaged with her friends, and reminding others to take care of themselves for long-term health.

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