Hello my name is Mary Lou. I'm 52 yrs old. On Dec 4, 2013 I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer. I have had consistent annual mammograms and ultrasounds ..each time were clear. When I received my news I felt like I had been slammed into a brick wall. As I write this note, I feel like I am speaking about someone else...this is surreal. My life has forever changed! I am digging deep inside myself to stay strong, focused and positive but I really want to start screaming and not stop! I want to go to bed and when I wake up I will realize it has just been a nightmare and my life can go back to normal. I have been given very challenging treatment choices and I have chosen to have a mastectomy. Surgery is January 6...the day my journey begins. I have been suffering from anxiety which has created other problems for me. I have the most wonderful husband who has been helping to keep me focused and balanced. My fears and anxiety are driving me and I need to stay in control. I have no family history of cancer but I did have a serious fall in Nov 2011 and injured my breast causing a large hematoma. Ironically this is where the cancer is now. They say that injuries do not cause cancer but I am not sure about that. I have some very loving and supportive people in my inner circle, one namely my son. This support is helping me to stay strong. It's really sad how I have taken my health for granted....I am a very healthy person, eat right, exercise (could stand to lose a few pounds) but for the most part a very healthy person. I have been slapped in the face with my diagnosis....I cannot do anything to change it so I'm going to fight it with every ounce of will power I have.
I am embracing life....every day is precious ...I am going to share and glorify every moment I can with the people I love.
Orillia, Canada
