In 2012, I was 49 years old and I was diagnosed, after a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy, with stage 3a invasive ductal carcinoma in my left breast. Yes...men have breasts too. Over our pectoral muscle we have a certain amount of breast tissue.
I was treated with a mastectomy with lymph node dissection, 18 weeks of aggressive chemotherapy (6 rounds, a round every 3 weeks of A,C and T) , after a little time off, 25 daily rounds of generous radiation. I'm currently showing no evidence of disease and I am on a 10 year course of Tamoxifen. Between the chemotherapy and the tamoxifen, they leave me a some cognitive issues. Remembering names, instructions, and such are sometimes difficult.
Breast cancer gave me so much more than it's taken away though. I've been fortunate to meet wonderful people; doctors, nurses, aides. And made wonderful friends who I never would have met otherwise.
Today I am an advocate for male breast cancer. I speak to folks about my journey whenever I have a chance. I do the media tour in October with the local newspapers, television, radio and internet radio blogs type shows.
Men: talk to your family about your family history of breast cancer and other diseases. Then talk to your doctor about that family history and ask what your risk factors are. Work with your doctor to minimize those risk factors. Learn and do monthly breast self exams. What you don't know can kill you.
This year, according to the American Cancer Society, over 2,300 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Of that number, 430 is expected to die from it due to the late stage in which it's found. If you feel something, say something.
Waterbury, CT
