After losing my Mom to breast, bone and lung cancer in 2005, I was diagnosed with stage lll breast cancer in Sept. Of 2007. As I got the diagnosis, my husband and best friend (my awesome support system) began to cry because I would require a double mastectomy. My surgeon laughed when I told them to stop crying... because (at 45) I would get to have them put back where they were supposed to be. I went through chemo first to shrink the cancer...just too much for a surgeon to remove, then a double mastectomy. Weird thing is, I wasn't scared. I guess my thought process was it is what it is, I am tough and will fight. Unfortunately, like many before me, I too had many complications. Infections, collapsed lung, Bells Palsy, which resulted in the right side of my face being permanently paralyzed (just to name a few). Oh, and the getting them back to where they were suspposed to be came in a much smaller size ( very happy that I now get to save money for things other than bras). It was a long tough fight and took almost 5 years of battling the pain in every joint, loss of muscle, weight loss, chemo brain and just a lack of strength and the ability to do the most basics of everyday life. However there is good news. I am proud to say that currently I am kicking cancer's ass. As of the 13th of Sept., it has been 7 years since my diagnosis. I feel strong and finally whole again despite my many battle scars and missing parts. To all those that have or may suffer from this terrible life threatning and debilitating illness, I pray that the good Lord gives you an awesome support system to help you stay strong and remain positive to fight the good fight. Much peace and love to you all.

Leslie Dietel
Longmont, CO