I went for my usual yearly mammogram in December 2011. As usual, they had me wait and called me back in for additional pictures. I looked at the Radiologist's face and something told me something was not right. The next evening I got a call at home from my primary care doctor and, when I saw her number on the phone, I knew the news was not good. I have known my primary care doctor for many years and when she said "She hated making the call," I believed she did. Prognosis could have been a lot worse -- Stage 1 lumpectomy. Met with the Oncologist and she suggested options. I was 58 at the time and my husband went with me. He was worried about the effect the chemo would have and, when she explained everything, I too did not know what to do. However, I said to my husband "So, if I do nothing, am I supposed to take the chance of not being here in 10 years?" Of course I went with the Oncologist's and my doctor's judgment (my own doctor had breast cancer). What followed was four treatments of chemo (one every 21 days) followed by 6-1/2 weeks of radiation. I cried when I had to shave my head, hated the wig and wore a hat for a while. In December 2012 I was one-year cancer free and, of course, will sit on pins and needles when I get my next mammogram in December this year. I have to put it all in God's hands though and trust He will take care of me. I ask God to take care of each and every one of you who are in a worse situation than I was and commend you for your bravery and courage. It is not easy news to take.

Karen Visone
East Boston, MA