My journey began in May, 2013 with my 6th annual mammogram. I have never been called back for additional scans before and was assured that most times it is nothing, just a precaution. After additional scans and a biopsy my diagnosis came June 12, 2013, Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, hormone receptor positive. July 3rd I underwent a lumpectomy only to find the margins were unclear, a reincision was made July 17th. I received the all clear a few days after surgery and began my adventure into radiation treatments and Tamoxifen, to reduce risk of recurrent cancer. By the end of August I was at the cancer treatment center 5 days a week, until finally I reached my 36th treatment on October 17th. We celebrated the end of treatments and the end of cancer!! December 2013 I underwent a hysterectomy to lessen the chance of recurrent cancer.
Early in February of 2014 I noticed some changes in the appearance of my breast, and felt some new lumps. I was told changes occur after radiation, it's a process of healing, but to be sure I scheduled a mammogram. February 21, 2014, only 8 months after the mammogram that began it all, I had a biopsy that resulted in the February 27th phone call informing me I have cancer, again. Or was it still? I had two biopsies in February and multiple scans to confirm the diagnosis, cancer has spread throughout my breast! I currently await my May 19th Mastectomy date with the plan to begin reconstruction. Praying this ends my cancer journey, and destination life continues. Keep the faith, keep up the fight!
Ellwood City, PA
