I do not have breast cancer in my family and have gotten my mammogram every year for 20 years. Did not find a lump and was not worried about cancer, but then....Was diagnosed Dec. 2009 with DCIS. Had 3 biopsies, 1 was "wire guided". The wire guided was the most painful experience that I have ever had (and also terrifying) had no nurse advocate with me. Had 2 surgeries, 1 February 19th then found out they didn't "get a clear margin" so had 2nd surgery March 19th. Got clear margins but also a partial masectomy. Went through 6 1/2 weeks radiation (thankfully, no chemo). Still having pain in breast, still have trouble sleeping and eating. Have lost 26 pounds and trying to keep upbeat, but still have down days. My best friend was diagnosed a few months later with stage 2 cancer, so had double mascectomy and now going through chemo. You don't really think about it until YOU get it. Didn't know anyone with breast cancer until I was diagnosed, now know 3 people, all close friends. Still angry - why did this happen to me? Thank God for my husband, I would never have made it through this by myself. First mammogram after surgery in December - 1 year later. SCARED!!! What will they find this time? If I get it again, can I go through this again? Don't know.....but I DO know this --- I WILL survive!! This awful, horrific disease WILL NOT GET ME!!!
AnonymousWashougal, WA