I was 32 years old in 1986 when I found the pea size lump in my left breast. My doctor had checked me only a month earlier but when I did my self exam it was there. A week later, after a mammogram and biopsy, I had a modified radical mastectomy.
The pathologist found another tumor in the breast tissue but my lymph nodes and bone scan were clear. To my relief my surgeon didn't order chemotherapy or radiation. Those kind of treatments really took their toll on my mother who had died 5 years earlier of ovarian cancer at age 64.
I found out I was pregnant about four months after my surgery. My newborn son grew strong on milk from my remaining breast. After breastfeeding, I began to explore reconstruction options. LSU medical school in New Orleans experimented on me with a free flap from my abdomen.They even made a new belly button for me. Everything went well but my scars were prominent.
In 2000, I decided to get tattoos over my scars. They made me feel empowered and even comfortable in a bikini. My picture is from a photo shoot for a book called "The Survivor Spirit" with pictures and stories from myself and other breast cancer survivors. Many of the women I have talked with over the years agree that stress had probably been a major factor in our illness.
My scars are a badge of courage but my tattoos have provided the decorations. I have been a survivor for 24 years. I truly believe that self exam and prompt medical treatment saved my life. Working with my doctors to keep me healthy has been important.
Ultimately, I am the one, along with my Higher Power, who is responsible for my well being. Namaste
Hakalau, HI
