In October 2010 I found a lump in my left breast. I was sent for a mammogram and ultrasound. The lump turned out to be a fibroadenoma with a cyst attached and was benign. I had the cyst drained. However, in my right breast they found DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) stage 0 breast cancer and because it was widespread they recommended a mastectomy with reconstruction. This came as a huge shock to me, but with the support of my husband and family I decided to go ahead with the surgery. I told people "If a bomb was placed in your house and you were told it might go off, but it might not!" what are you going to do? Of course you would get it out of your house and quick!! On February 14th, 2011 (yes Valentines Day) I underwent a 6 hour operation to remove the breast tissue and reconstruct my breast using my tummy tissue! The surgery was successful and I did not need chemo or any further treatment. It has almost been three years since my surgery and I continue to have yearly mammograms of my left breast and am in the all clear. I continue to trust God that my left breast will not become a problem, and I am thankful to God that a benign lump had me go for a mammogram early. 80% of the breast tissue they thought had DCIS was infected, so I am glad it is out of my body now! It is a tough surgery to recover from, but I have no regrets and still have my health and I know I am a much stronger person because of it. What doesn't kill you, definitely makes you stronger.

Helen Furness
Brisbane, Australia