I saw my OB/GYN on December 17, 2012. I had a ping pong sized ball under my left arm. After meeting with surgeon next, the tests began. The enlarged lymph nodes were cause for concern after the mammogram and ultrasound, but nothing else was detected. Both doctors said I had fibrous breast tissue. Then I had an MRI where a “suspicious mass” was detected in my left breast. Biopsies in both areas confirmed the cancer. I received the diagnosis on January 14, 2013. Shortly thereafter, I learned that the tumors were ER/PR-positive and Her-2/new score of 2+ and the staging was IIIA.
My focus for 2013 was to end this. Eight rounds of chemotherapy for 4 months starting in February. A bilateral mastectomy and 17 lymph nodes removed under my left arm happened in June. Six weeks of radiation in July and a complete hysterectomy in September. I had a total of three reconstruction surgeries starting in November and ending last month. Besides taking time off for the surgeries, I worked full time – thankfully virtually.
In March 2013, I was confirmed as BRCA2 positive. Ironically, this genetic mutation came from my dad, who unfortunately lost his battle against esophageal cancer in early 2014.
Just before chemo started, I thought that this was the most ridiculous thing that could ever happen. I was a fighter and was going to get rid of this nonsense. My husband and two young boys have been tremendously strong for me along with our incredible network of family and friends.
I hope to give others encouragement and strength who need it no matter what they might be fighting. Be strong, believe in yourself, fight hard, give yourself pity parties when warranted, and being an alumna of the University of Arizona, I have to say....Bear Down.
Gilbert, AZ
