I was diagnosed in August of 2003. I had my routine mammogram and it showed up there. I then had an ultrasound but the cancer did not show up on that. So I had a biopsy. And the cancer was confirmed. I called my three children and through tears I told them the news. Then I called my sisters. My husband was with me through the whole process and had just had quadruple heart bypass surgery a few weeks before and before that he had had one bad stroke and several small strokes. So for me to be diagnosed with breast cancer was like the icing on the cake. My doctor gave me the choice of lumpectomy or mastectomy, and since I was 60 years old I chose the mastectomy. My surgery took place on September 25, 2003, my one daughter's wedding anniversary. I am a strong person and knew I would beat this. But in my heart I was scared to death, and no one knew my fear. I have to say my family and my husband's family were very supportive. My sisters, one from Idaho, and the other from Ohio came to be with me for my surgery. And my son and daughter from Ohio also came to be with me. My daughter here in Pennsylvania, even though it was her anniversary, spent the day with me. I will never forget the day I took the dressing off to see the surgery sight. I was both surprised at how well it looked, but also horrified to see one of my breasts missing. My husband said he would rather I be without a breast than dead.That night I ask God to guide me through the process of accepting the fact I was missing a breast.

Sally Collins
Harrisburg, PA