On February 10, 2010 I had a double Mastectomy….My battle with Breast Cancer began December, just two days before ringing in the New Year. We are never prepared to hear the words “you have breast cancer”. After having my digital mammogram the doctors discovered suspicious “grains of sand”. After a lumpectomy and then a re-excision, I was told the grains were more extensive throughout the duct. Back in the hospital for surgery number three! I was Blessed to have 0 stage cancer and required no chem or radiation after my Mastectomy.
During my journey with Breast Cancer, God Blessed me with an amazing circle of support from family and friends from every corner of the country. With the help of my support system, I began training for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk just four months after my surgery. As the youngest survivor walking, it was my small way to help others battling this disease while helping myself to stay healthy and strong. I believe my strong faith, positive attitude and wonderful support system helped me along the journey but what helped me to survive breast cancer was the decision to have my mammogram. Don’t put it off - schedule your mammogram today!
I pray for a cure for Breast Cancer but until that cure comes, do your part to stay healthy and schedule your yearly mammograms, do a self-exam and each year have a yearly clinical exam. We all want to sing the words “I Will Survive”….
Much love and BIG hugs to my family and friends!
Elaine
Lisle, IL