I am a 35 yr old wife and mother. I have struggled with lumps and pain throughout my breasts for the past 16 months, suffering with fibrocystic disorder. My initial visit, my gynecologist referred me for a mammogram and ultrasound. I was asked to return 6 mos later for a follow-up. 6 mos later I was then referred for another ultrasound, upon the results they ordered my first biopsy. Results were negative. 3 mos later extreme tenderness and pain along with several other lumps began appearing, I returned to my gynecologist and was referred immediately to an Oncologist. He did an ultrasound and stated he didn't see anything of concern and sent me for an MRI. The next day he called and stated they recommended an additional biopsy. I waited for almost 2 mos with no call from them to schedule the second biopsy, so I began to search for another doctor. Upon locating one, I sent over all my reports from the several mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsy and MRI. they scheduled me an immediate appointment. My initial appointment, was there for 5 hrs as they completed additional extensive testing on me and I was directed to return in one week for the second biopsy. The following day I received the results and the news that I had breast cancer. I am now scheduled for a bilateral mastectomy next week. I would like to urge ALL women young or older, PLEASE do not wait or allow a doctor to "throw you on the sidelines". Had I not been persistent, who knows when I would have been diagnosed and the results could have been a lot worse. I am a wife, who's husband was wrongfully convicted of a crime, whom sits in prison as my children and I have to endure this journey without him. We have children ranging from ages 16 all the way down to 7 years. I'm not scared, I just wish I knew what to expect post-surgery. I know that God has given me the strength to endure this, and in the end He will be glorified.

Victoria Hernandez
Salton City, CA