I was recently diagnosed with Paget's disease. I had symptoms for over 3 months. I decided to ignore them. Classic symptoms of the disease. I knew ignoring them was unwise. But I figured "HEY NO LUMPS, right?" and I just turned 39.
I went in for my yearly physical. My doctor, the normal talkative person he is. Kind of reminds people of Dr. House. Became quite quiet when did the breast exam. When examining my armpit area, he asked me. "So how long have your nipples bothered you?"
In the back of my mind, I had one reminder. My mother had breast cancer at age 39. I was about to turn 39 myself. History like this doesn't repeat itself does it? My aunt had breast cancer at 35, my cousin at age 33. Come on, I have to win some sort of genetics lotto, so far my luck has not been good.
Well, the prognosis is not great. I've had mammograms, scans, removals of lumps, DNA testing of myself and my two daughters *who have both won the DNA lotto*, Then one morning I woke up with stains, my breast decided to leak overnight. They sent a sample of the discharge and it's been confirmed. I have Paget's disease at age 39. AND I am scared for my life. I am scheduled surgery on June 24th.
Your products have kept me strong. I've found strength in the ones that say "one day at a time." and the pink ribbon items. Without you, I'd feel so alone. You are my support group. I don't reach out, I don't speak often, as this is still new to me. Thank you for being there for me. Without you, I'd be lost.
Seattle, WA