I started HRT in February of 2000. In March of 2000 my mammogram was clear. By May I had a painful lump in my left breast that hurt when I would lie on my side. Ultrasound and a biopsy confirmed my fears. I had a lumpectomy in late June, but delayed chemo until August after a planned vacation with my husband. My surgeon had not given me very good odds. At least six out of twelve lymph nodes examined were positive. I stubbornly decided I would not give up and did meditation and visualization.
Chemo and radiation weren't too hard on me, but I did gain weight. My body felt starved during and after chemo. I followed radiation with Tamoxifen for four years, then my oncologist recommended changing to Femara. Both have hot flash side effects, but those flashes remind me I'm still battling the hormone receptive cancer. Each day I am overwhelmingly grateful to be here with my family and friends.
During radiation, I rediscovered my love of working in glass art. Previous stained glass experience helped with my new love of fusing glass. I took classes and eventually started selling my work in shows around Oregon.
For the past few years I have been a fusing instructor at a local non-profit glass school. I now teach high school students and adults, volunteer, and sell at shows. I have met so many survivors through the glass community. Janis Piper (a previous story contributor) is one of those remarkable survivors and a wonderful friend. We help each other at craft and art shows and share our stories with other survivors we meet.
Though at times my life has been a battle, I feel a survived for a reason. Every day is a new opportunity to discover that reason.
Eugene, OR
