In 1998 I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer and here is my story. I am happy to be writing this story because that was 26 years ago and I am here to write about it.
I was shocked. I did everything right, SBEs, (self breast exams), mammograms, and annual appointments
There was no family history so that added to my shock.
Of course the work-up never goes fast enough. It is important to tell this part. I went to a surgeon that I knew professionally and trusted. As a patient I was shocked how uninvolved he felt, cold even. I wanted to say, hey! Wake up, this is important. I mention this because you need a true team when you face this diagnosis, remember that. I "fired" him and moved to a true team approach at UC Davis Med Center, Sacramento. There I found an abundance of angels more that willing to walk with me on my journey.
Biopsy was positive, mammogram proved I was in trouble.
Surgery scheduled. The new surgeon was my angel, he kissed my forehead as I was rolled into surgery. Now that is an angel. He reassured me that I was going to be ok. He even prayed over me. Very important.
One night in the hospital, home the next day with drains, OMG! That was a Friday. On Saturday my drains and I went for a 5 mile walk. Now I know that sounds insane, but I had to prove something to myself.
My sweet sister came out, thank God. That is when you really need a sister. She took me to Victoria Secret to get a new breast, fake of course. As embarrassed as I was, the salesperson was another angel reassuring me I would be ok.
Over the months of chemo, I worked as a Nurse Practitioner as I just couldn't be home. It was a great distraction, hard, but great. Multiple surgeries, reconstruction, etc. I finally felt human at 6 months.
I mention these timelines as it is important to know that it gets better.
I was able to keep my hair, exercise, work, eat, cry and also read lots of positive affirming books.
The point is I made it. I told myself I would, there could be no doubt in that.
My friends and family got me through this and yours will, too. But even if you have no one, there are some people that don't have anyone, YOU can do this!
Say positive, talk to God, but maintain your belief in yourself.
I hope this helps someone out there.
With love I share this story.