My story is to give hope to women who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
1996, diagnosed aged 46. working in my own business, kids at home, a wonderful supportive and loving husband never failing to be by my side through my journey.
My GP found a lump in right breast and I reeled from the pathology report, "cancer". A lumpectomy, radiation and chemo followed for 6 months. During this time between treatments I continued to work, a great leveller for me and a distraction from the ordeal. I recovered and returned to enjoying life.
1998, Ductal Carcinoma Insitu found in left breast, removed and 33 treatments of radiation followed. I started a 5 year course on Tamoxifen with no noticeable side affects. Life again was sweeter for my experiences, appreciating each day loving and enjoying my family even more. I became a Nana, grateful for the love and joys it brought to my life.
2008, I received another blow, cancer in my right breast again, this time the "Girls" had to go so I decided on a bi-lateral mastectomy with reconstruction at the same time. I was aware because of previous radiation treatments this lessoned my chances of a successful reconstruction but I had to have a go! One month later, disappointed, ill with an infection, I was back in hospital to have expanders removed. My attitude was "I just want to be well and get on with my life and being happy wasn't about a cleavage and 2 bumps on the front of my chest. I bounced back again was fitted for 2 external breast forms which are safe and I get the relief of taking them off at the end of the day! I then began another 5 years on Tamoxifen.
2014, Here I am 64 years of age, 18 years since the start of my journey, never giving up! Well and happily enjoying everyday and adventure possible, refusing to let cancer steal my joy of living. I thank all the amazing doctors and medical treatments that I have received and am great advocate for early detection.
Tamworth, Australia
