When I was diagnosed with a "teeny-weeny" breast cancer, it was as though the cancer was not real. In spite of the fact that my mother and one sister had had breast cancer, I never really let it sink in that I had it as well. I had surgery immediately (the surgeon said he could barely locate the site), and this was followed by 30+ daily treatments of radiation. I have been cancer free for several years but still suffer from hot flashes caused by the medication I took for about 5 years after the surgery. My message is one of hope ! If you are diagnosed, jump on it immediately! You can be a total winner ! Breast cancer does not have to come back. Never give up your optimism. I think this is THE KEY to treatment - optimism! A positive outlook cannot be stressed enough. It's like the Law of Attaction. Never let a negative thought enter your mind after before, during or after your treatment!

Carolyn F Rubenstein
Memphis, TN