I was due to have my baby in a few weeks time and discovered a lump in my left breast. The doctors told me it would only be a blocked milk duct and to breastfeed for 6 weeks.
I had a beautiful baby girl. Breastfeeding was a joyful time for me only to find the lump ballooned to a 9 cm tumour from a 2 cm lump.
There was no history in the family, I was young (23), healthy and supposed to be enjoying my new baby.
The specialist confirmed after a fine needle biopsy that I indeed had cancer. My world felt like it was falling apart so I held on tightly to my girl and was determined to see her grow up. My oncologist said not to have anymore kids, undergo chemo, radio, and have a lumpectomy. I was given a life sentence of 10 years to live.
Im a survivor and a stubborn one at that. No one was going to give me a life sentence or tell me not to have anymore kids. I love kids.
My baby girl is soon to be 16 yrs old and I have 2 more girls and a boy.
I am currently awaiting tests for genetics from Melbourne as there have been 2 other cousins in my family diagnosed at an older age and I want to give my children the option of finding out their chances of getting it so they can be proactive about the decisions they make for their own lives.
Im happy to talk to anyone who needs support too.
Te Awamutu, New Zealand