In March of 2002, while performing my monthly breast self-examination in the shower, I felt a lump in my right breast. I scheduled an appointment immediately with my gynecologist. My gynecologist felt that it wasn't something to be concerned about, but I pressed him to send me for a mammogram. I know my body and I knew something was wrong. Unfortunately, I was right! The mammogram detected a lump, which led to a lumpectomy biopsy that indicated I had a .8 cm cancerous tumor in my right breast.
I was immediately paralyzed with shock. I thought that this doesn't happen to women my age. I am only 37 years old and have so much more living to do. After putting these fears aside, I wanted to know what treatments were available and how quickly we could get started. I began doing my own research on breast cancer, as I wanted to be as knowledgeable as possible about the options before me, so that there would be no surprises. Knowledge is power and powerful is what I wanted to be!
My doctor and I discussed my options. After discussing them with my family, I opted for the most aggressive surgical approach, having a double mastectomy, which also included removing 21 lymph nodes from under my right arm, two of which were cancerous. This surgery also indicated that my cancer had progressed to Stage 2. The emotions that I felt in losing my breasts were not of fear, but instead of relief. Watching my beautiful 10 year-old daughter grow up to become an independent woman and one day enjoying retirement with my husband was more important to me than keeping my breasts. After all, there was a light at the end of this tunnel; I could always have reconstructive surgery.
Along with aggressive cancer, comes aggressive treatment! I had to receive eight chemotherapy treatments followed by radiation. Like everyone who undergoes chemotherapy, I lost my hair, which didn't exactly thrill me! I decided to turn it into something positive and donate my hair to "Locks of Love" so children with Alopecia Areata could benefit from my situation. This decision was liberating and made it much easier for me to handle.
The encouragement, support, strength and ultimate love that I have received from God, my husband, daughter, family, friends, co-workers and employer have completely overwhelmed me. I have taken this empowerment and applied it to my fight against breast cancer. Exactly one year after diagnosis, I had completed my treatment, was cancer-free and had undergone reconstructive surgery and my hair has grown back. I am now back at work and have been promoted. My journey through breast cancer is now over. For all of you, whose journey is just starting - don't give up hope. You can get your life back - I did.
I am so thankful for this opportunity to be Charity for Women's spokesperson as I am given the chance to share my story, stress how important early detection is and to trust your gut feelings. You ultimately know your body better than anyone else. If my story serves to help just one person then it was all worth it!
Every woman deserves hope.
In March of 2002, while performing my monthly breast self-examination in the shower, I felt a lump in my right breast. I scheduled an appointment immediately... more
