hmmmm,,,, a challenge to get months worth of emotion and fact into 300 words but here goes....A new lump, history of fibrocystic disease, not a big deal right? Will wait to get it checked after our first vacation together to mexico. Dr, ultrasound, mammo, biopsy (reassured by radioligist, 90% chance just a fibromydoma, I was doubtful, suspicious new lumps in armpit) May 5th at 36 diagnosed with breast cancer, I, married, 2 sons, 15 and 17, education assistant, the journey begins. Treatment was swift! (lucky or is it very serious?) surgeon, oncologist, MRI's, CT scan etc etc. Diagnosis, very aggressive cancer, stage 3C. Treatment, 6 months chemo, double masectomy. Excitement! all removed tissue responded excellent to chemo! gone! Celebrate, share the news! Oops, not aware of the node in chest cavity was in-operable (we weren't told, an oversite) Oncologist, radioligist, rushed procedures,Tamoxifen (yuck, weight gain, headache, HOTTER hot flashes!) 5 weeks radiation coming up soon before and reconstruction can begin. It has been 9 months now, still moving forward. Despite it all, unable to work, hairloss, pain, fatique and all the other 101 side effects I still tell people how lucky I am for so much. Family, healthcare providers, friends and even strangers, giving me strength with their love, support, prayers, positive vibes! I am blessed, there are way more smiles then tears! Wish me luck, as I hope for you the best in your journey. I will live and learn as I continue to share some of the roller coaster with a photo journal for friends and family on my fb page, ahhhhh, the internet, somedays my link to the world!

Carla Gabel
Yorkton, Canada