I had felt a lump a few weeks earlier but due to my age everyone said it was probably nothing. I had a mammogram and ultrasound, which at the end of the doctor said "do you have a surgeon you prefer?" I immediately knew then. My phone rang on the 11th at 7:30pm and my doctor asked if I would rather come in to Boston tomorrow or talk now on the phone. I shut the door to the room I was in and said now. I had breast cancer. She kept asking if someone else should pick up the other line for support, but I had to hear it alone. I hung up and walked halfway to my husband before breaking down. Calling my mom was the hardest thing I have done. Telling your mom she can't fix or take away something so horrible from her baby is heartbreaking.
The next day the three of us went in to meet the team and be told more details. It was Triple Negative, very aggressive, only treatment is chemotherapy. I started 12 weeks of Taxol within a few weeks followed by a double mastectomy and am in the middle of my dose dense 8 weeks of AC.
It can be extremely isolating at times, and what I want people to know is how much beauty, positivity and strength you find along the journey as well. If you know someone newly diagnosed you really can make all the difference in their healing process. My friends and family have been great, and that is something I hope for every woman in this battle. The support, encouragement, and acknowledgment from co-workers, neighbors, local store personnel and people I have not connected with in years has been incredibly inspiring. A random card in the mail, unexpected phone call, a meal prepared for you, or just a question on how you are doing truly makes that tough day seem maneagble or even positive. It is really hard to ask for help and I am so grateful for those people and all those moments I will never forget.
Andover, MA
