Not in a million years would I think I would be diagnosed with breast cancer, at age 54. Our local Senator was having no cost mammography screenings partnered with the Italian American Cancer Society. I thought that would be a great way of me showing my support, and spread the word for those less fortunate. Can you figure out how the story ends. My mammogram showed tiny calcifications coming back suspicious, and so after a few tests at Memorial Sloane Kettering, I was diagnosed with DCIS, in July 2009. I had a partial masectomy. My doctor advised me they got it all, but there was an initial test that needed to be done, the ONCO type DX. This amazing test evaluates tissue samples and can determine the likelihood there is a risk of me getting the cancer again. It also determines if chemo is needed ......
I just completed my chemo, what a great Christmas present. After the new year I will sit down with my radiologist/oncologist and decide which treatment of radiation will be good for me.
Ladies, get those yearly mammograms do those self checks, and most of all get educated on breast cancer. I learned so much in the past six months, and still am learning. There have been amazing advancements in breast cancer.
I have kept a strong positive attitude about this. I have had the love and deep support and prayers of my family and dear friends...
Along the way I have met many amazing woman, who have given me the courage, hope and strength to deal with this head on.
I plan after my radiation, to evaluate the different areas of support systems for breast cancer and focus on one of them and SPREAD THE WORD..THE BEST WAY I CAN.
Little Neck, NY