I was 26 years old when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My surgery - a radical mastectomy - was performed just after Labor Day at City of Hope in Duarte, California. A few days later, I celebrated my birthday. If somebody asks when my birthday is, I tell them September, and I celebrate the whole month! This year, it's been 42 years since my cancer treatment, and I'm 68 years old!
I believe it's very important for us to share our success stories. When I was diagnosed, I didn't know anybody ever had breast cancer and then lived a long life. I know that sharing my story has encouraged others to go for mammograms and treatment.
Austin, TX