The Battle With Breast Cancer
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer – two words that strike fear in every woman. Since my diagnosis just three weeks ago, my breasts have become the topic of conversation around the dinner table, in the neighborhood and at work. For something that has not been very prominent in my life until now, my breasts have literally taken on a life of their own. Friends will call, “How are your breasts today?” My immediate response is, “O.k, how are yours?”

I have been diagnosed with not one, but two forms of breast cancer, Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma and Infiltrating Lobular Carcinoma - a double whammy. For me, it sounds like something from a Star Trek episode, “Captain Kirk, the Infiltrating Lobular Carcinoma is heading our way, quick let’s blast it!”

What is so amazing to me, is the fact that just a few weeks ago, my main health concern was in losing those extra 10 pounds around my middle. The thought of dying didn’t factor into my everyday world of being a full-time working mother. No, dying was something that was not on my weekly “to do” list; at least, not for another 20+ years at best. I have way too much to do- band concerts to go to, basketball games to help organize, new kitchen countertops to order, no nothing that began with “d” was on the list, except for taking the dog in for her annual shots.

I have spent the last week shuttling between doctors’ offices and resource centers, immersing myself in this new world, which is so frightening at first. Along the way, I have met some incredible women. They call themselves “survivors,” I call them angels. One such angel is Patty. Patty was the first to call me after my diagnosis; a nurse at the doctor’s office gave her my name. She called bright and early Monday morning. Now, I’ve yet to meet her, but in just two minutes she made a profound impact on my life. A feisty, bubbly woman, Patty is a 10-year-survivor of breast cancer, Stage III. She cut to the chase in our first conversation and asked, “What is your worst fear?” As the mother of two teenage girls, that was easy, “I want to live to see my youngest daughter graduate from high school.” Patty’s response, “Get that thought out of your mind, I guarantee you’ll be there.” She sounded so sure and determined. I kept her words and her inspiration with me as I went from doctor to doctor.

Breast cancer is similar to life as it is defined in stages; in this case the stages are marked from 0 – 4. In breast cancer, the lower the number, the better. I have more tests to go, however, right now I’m holding at Stage 1. And my goal is to stay there.

I’ve received advice and counsel from well meaning friends and relatives. I’ve quickly discovered that even though there is a ton of information out there about breast cancer, many women still don’t know or truly understand all the facts. 

Here’s what I’ve discovered:

1. You know your body better than anyone, any doctor, husband, friend, etc. If you think that something is not quite right, search for answers. Don’t let fear or insurance restrictions stop you. (In my case, it was a negative Mammogram). Take charge of your own health. In the long run, your “gut” will help lead you in the right direction.

2. Breast cancer is as unique as the person who has it. Don’t compare yourself with others. Get informed, stand strong and make decisions that are best for you.

3. Breast cancer is not just a physical thing. The emotional toll is enormous as well.

Do what you need to do to feel better, inside and out. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, even if it is a shoulder to cry on.

In the end, breast cancer will probably not make me a “better person.” In reality, I will still be the same inpatient woman that I am today. However, what I hope is that through this experience, I will have a deeper appreciation for all things in my life and that I won’t take any sunrise or sunset and everything that happens in-between for granted.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month… take a few minutes to make a big difference in the life of a woman who has been touched by this disease.