I was a 39 year old single mom of two kids when I was diagnosed on May 1, 2000 with Stage 3B Ductal Carcinoma. Of course that is a day that I will never forget even though I would like to. My daughter was 13 and my son was 10 at the time of my diagnosis and were home the evening that I received the call that would change our lives forever.
I felt a lump on the side of my right breast and immediately made a doctor appointment. After a mammogram, untrasound and needle biopsy I was devastated and shocked by the diganosis. Feeling scared and overwhelmed, I knew I needed to gain control as I had a very long, hard road ahead of me that involved several surgeries including a lumpectomy, mastectomy with tissue expander, chemo, radiation and then breast reconstruction as well as raise my kids and continue to work full time. To say it was a very hard time for me and my family is putting it mildly.
Today, looking back at all I went through, with so many obstacles along the way, I am thankful for each new day. I believe my faith, family, friends and of course my wonderful doctors are the reason I am here today. I have since opted to have my left breast removed as it was something that I was asked to consider at the time of my diagnosis. I wasn't having any parts of doing anything more than what was absolutely necessary. I was only 39 and wasn't about to have both breasts removed. I must admit that not doing it at that time was a huge mistake on my part but I remember and understand how I felt about it 14 years ago.
Today, I have a wonderful man in my life and 2 amazing, strong, independent, grown children who have made me very proud. I am so very thankful to be here today to tell my story and thrilled to say that I am a 14 year BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR!!!!!!!!!
West Chester, PA