I was happily going about my life, and 10 years cancer free. Went for my yearly mammogram it was clear, but I asked for an ultrasound, So glad I did, because there was another malignancy, I had a lumpectomy followed by radiation.. The following year I had another scare, MRI, needle biopsy, negative, but I was so tired of all of the repeated scares and tests, I called my surgeon and told him I wanted to have a double mastectomy with reconstruction.My surgery was 2 years ago, and as anyone who has had one knows, it is quite painful physically and emotionally. I was still uncomfortable, but finally in much less pain.
Well, 5 weeks ago I found a lump and went to my Oncologist, who said "it's nothing, just scar tissue, but because you are a worrier, we will do an MRI" Well long story short after a lot testing, a needle biopsy and a surgical biopsy, I have been diagnosed with cancer again, and face at least one more surgery in 10 days, still unknown if I will need more surgery or Chemo, maybe just radiation.
There are so many myths about breast cancer, you do not need to have a family history, and you CAN still get it after a complete mastectomy, 5 doctor's told me this was nothing. Trust your instincts, don't let them tell you, you are a worrier, if something does not feel right, check and recheck. I am responsible for all of my correct diagnosis., I did my exams and insisted on further testing when I was told it was nothing.
This new cancer is very curable, so for that I am very grateful, and grateful to all of my wonderful doctors who have seen me through all of this, but we are part of the team and we must be proactive in our care. I am also truly grateful for my wonderful husband, who has been with me every step of the way, to my family near and friends near and far, for all of there support. Let's fight the good fight,
Mesa, AZ