Tell us about your diagnosis
I was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer the first time at the age of 54 and the second time at the age of 63. I have been a survivor for 20 years. Survival starts the day of diagnosis…I am so, so BLESSED.
What was your first thought when diagnosed?
I am a Registered Nurse, but hearing you have cancer for the first time directed specifically to me almost took my breath away. It was advanced, so the big concern was for my family.
Tell us about your journey
The first time was nine months of chemotherapy and every two WEEKS, plus two surgeries and radiation for five weeks. I was BALD for over a year! Almost one and a half years of active treatment for this first journey. The second time I had bilateral mastectomies, six months of chemotherapy, two surgeries and four weeks of radiation; and I was BALD! I say bald with humor!
What is your most vivid memory of your cancer journey?
My first surgeon sang two verses of Amazing Grace to me before I was put to sleep in the Operating Room. God’s grace and healing through my medical team and continuing for my 20 years as a survivor.
What would you share with someone else who is on this journey?
Get a second opinion and consider that second opinion from a University Medical Center. Make an appointment with a medical oncologist first and let this doctor plan your care. Try your best not to worry, and rather actively advocate for the best care you can receive. There will be delays when it feels so urgent, and you cannot change a lot of things, so pause and take a deep breath….look for the GOOD things every day.
This journey changed my life, and I am better because of it. I hope I can help and encourage others in whatever struggles they may be facing. Look around in the treatment room, and you will see many who have an even tougher journey than you are experiencing; be a light of God in their life. Call it a divine appointment or paying it forward—a crisis is a terrible thing to waste. Cancer is so limited, and you can choose to limit its influence by remembering that it cannot shatter hope, cripple love, corrode faith, destroy confidence, silence courage, shut out memories, kill friendships, nor quench your spirit….cancer does not hold the power to rob you of your joy or peace.